🌟 It’s Never Too Late: Nathan Wilkins’ Journey Back to School 🌟

At 46 years old, Nathan is preparing to do something he once believed might never be possible; walking across the graduation stage this June to receive his Ontario Secondary School Diploma.
Nathan, a member of the Mohawk Nation of the Bay of Quinte, has drawn strength from his culture throughout his journey.
“Culture is important, as it has helped me connect to the Creator and Mother Earth,” he shares.
Nathan’s path to graduation was far from easy. A serious back and neck injury as a teenager ended his secondary schooling and his promising football career with the Edmonton Eskimos. Years of chronic pain followed, along with the belief that graduating or finding meaningful work might never happen.
Everything began to change after Nathan moved to Sudbury and enrolled in the Rehabilitation Program at Health Sciences North. As pool therapy and gym work helped him regain strength, something else grew too — his belief in himself.
“I knew going back to school was the only way I could find a better job,” Nathan says.
That belief led him to register at St. Albert Learning Centre this fall, despite fears, especially around math. His strategy? “Do a little bit every day.”
Just as things were coming together, Nathan faced another major challenge when his girlfriend was diagnosed with cancer. With her encouragement, along with support from his family, teachers, and fellow students, Nathan kept going even bringing his schoolwork to the hospital and coming in whenever he could for extra help.
Then came the turning point.
“That’s when I realized I can actually do this,” Nathan shares. “I knew I was more than capable of success.”
Nathan credits the entire school community for creating a positive, supportive environment. “I had four different teachers, and each one was incredibly supportive. That sense of community made all the difference.”
Today, Nathan’s diploma has already opened doors. He’s now working with YMCA Employment Services, exploring new job opportunities and building a future he once thought was out of reach.
His message to others is simple and powerful:
✨ “It’s never too late to get your education. If I could do it so can you.”
Through PLAR (Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition), Nathan received secondary credits for his life experience, allowing him to complete his remaining credits in about 1.5 months of focused work.
And he’s not done yet. Nathan recently earned his Safe Food Handlers Certificate and is exploring further training, including interest in becoming a Confined Space Rescue Technician.
Principal Christina Raso shares:
“Nathan is an outstanding role model for our school community. His perseverance, kindness, and determination shine through everything he does. He not only shows what’s possible when you stay committed to your goals; he also lifts others up along the way.”
Nathan’s journey proves that new beginnings are always possible no matter your age or the obstacles you’ve faced.
Congrats Nathan!!
If you are missing credits toward your Ontario Secondary School Diploma, we’re here to help. Once we receive a copy of your transcript, our team can review your education and, through PLAR, create the fastest, most supportive pathway to graduation.
Graduation IS closer than you think!
📞 Call 705-673-3031 to get started.