As Nadege Jolivard prepares to cross the graduation stage this month, she reflects on how Fox Valley Technical College has been a fresh start — in more ways than one.
Originally from Haiti, Nadege was at the top of her game. She graduated from secretarial school and received a bachelor’s degree in business. She had over 10 years of experience as an administrative assistant, most recently serving as part of the Management Unit of Ministry of Public Health/President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief.
However, she made the difficult decision to leave everything familiar and start over, immigrating to the United States to flee violence and political crises in her home country.
The shift in her professional status, along with the challenge of navigating a new country, a new language and the immigration process, weighed heavily on Nadege. At the heart of it all, she was simply searching for peace and stability.
“I was confused, not really knowing what I wanted to do,” she says.
Nadege found encouragement from her brother, an FVTC alumnus, who shared how the college prepares students for employment by aligning its programs with the needs of local employers. She began her journey by taking English Language Learning (ELL) classes at FVTC. It was there that an instructor suggested she attend an open house. While there, Nadege was introduced to the Supply Chain Management program.
At first, Nadege had her doubts. Over time, however, she realized the program aligned well with her skills and goals.
“Choosing Supply Chain Management was one of my best choices ever,” Nadege says. “A supply chain is a dynamic system that requires changes, adjustment and improvement continuously. Today, I can visualize myself dealing with challenges, bringing innovation and enhancing efficiency.”
The program stood out to Nadege for several reasons, including the wide range of career and industry options, the broad knowledge base available to supply chain professionals and the high-demand nature for careers in the field.
Balancing multiple responsibilities was one of the greatest challenges she faced. When Nadege began her studies at FVTC, her youngest child was just six months old. As a working mother, spouse and student, she also faced financial barriers. Because of her immigration status, she was not eligible for financial support. Although she received some scholarships, Nadege accepted a position as a night shift worker to help support her family while continuing to work toward her goals.
Through these demanding years, Nadege credits her perseverance to her family, her faith and a shift in mindset she developed while attending FVTC.
“Since starting at FVTC, I have developed a more positive mindset,” she says. “I have developed the ability to consider problems as an opportunity to better myself. From now on, I won’t fear uncertainties.”
Today, Nadege looks back with gratitude and forward with confidence. She enters her next chapter equipped with the skills, determination and self-belief she has built along the way. After graduation, she hopes to secure an entry-level position in operations, purchasing, inventory or logistics, where she can continue learning from colleagues and supervisors while practicing what she has learned.
Her perseverance has opened doors that once seemed out of reach.
“Many doors that were locked are open for me now,” she says. “Education is a master key that can open doors you will never imagine.”
Education is a master key that can open doors you will never imagine.
This milestone is one she proudly shares with the people who supported her every step of the way.
“I will dedicate my graduation day to celebrate not only my achievements but also the love and support of my family. I am thankful — I am grateful!”
For fellow immigrants and adult learners who may be hesitant to begin their own college journey, Nadege has a message of encouragement to get started.
“Keeping uncertainties in your mind is not helpful at all. You can make a U-turn and go back. Leaving the pinnacle you occupied in your home country and falling to the bottom is not a big deal. The big deal is staying where you fell. So, my dearest immigrants, the soonest is the best. Set an appointment with a career counselor at FVTC, sign up for a program as fast as possible and offer a master key to yourself.”
