Certificate Business – Management Stream

When Isnalvis Perez Lopez arrived in Canada, she faced an immediate and overwhelming challenge - a limited command of the English language. As a psychologist in her home country, communication had always been at the core of her work, making it especially difficult to adjust to this new reality.

“I joined the IEP program because arriving in Canada with a limited command of the English language was extremely difficult. Given my background as a psychologist in my home country, being unable to communicate was a difficult reality to overcome, particularly in the workplace. Fortunately, IEP came along and gave me the perfect opportunity in the perfect setting to learn and grow,” says Perez Lopez.

Through the IEP Bridging Program, Isnalvis found the support, resources, and learning environment she needed to rebuild her confidence and professional skills in Canada.

Achieving Personal and Professional Milestones

The journey through the Certificate Program was both transformative and deeply fulfilling for Isnalvis. The program not only helped her develop key job search skills but it also gave her the confidence she needed to navigate the Canadian job market.

“As a primary goal, I must highlight my language proficiency, which has improved significantly over the last year and a half. I also increased my confidence as a job seeker and reaffirmed my ability to work on interview skills, resume creation, and LinkedIn profiles,” explains Isnalvis.

“The results of the program, personally, are inexplicable. I am so surprised and happy about the achievement of finishing it,” she states.

Building Connections and Understanding the Workplace Culture

Networking plays a key role in career success, and Isnalvis took full advantage of the program’s University setting to expand her professional and personal connections/

“I love the Certificate Program because it allows me to engage deeply in the university environment”, she says..

Through interactions with professors, peers, and professionals, she also gained valuable insights into the expectations of the Canadian workforce, further enhancing her ability to succeed in her new environment.

“Getting to know more professors was a wonderful experience and interacting with them not only provided academic knowledge but also allowed me to learn from their personal experiences. This interaction was key in my interpretation of the Canadian workplace environment and the importance of soft skills in a successful dynamic with colleagues and leaders,” she explains.

Preparing for the Canadian Job Market

Adapting to a new country’s job market requires the right knowledge, resources, and guidance - all of which the IEP Certificate Program provided for Isnalvis.

“ The Certificate Program, so far, has been the best and most determinate experience for me as a professional immigrant to gain the right knowledge and skills to succeed in the Canadian labor market. Access to the different courses offered in my stream (management) has given me the perfect pathway to be ready for professional life,” shares Isnalvis.

By taking advantage of the management stream courses and professional development resources, Isnalvis positioned herself for long-term career success in Canada.

“I would like to emphasize the excellent support I received from the staff; without the department, I probably could not have done this. Thank you from the bottom of my heart because the experience was beautiful in their company,” she says.

Advice for Fellow Newcomers

For newcomers facing similar challenges, Isnalvis offers words of encouragement and guidance:

“I would advise any newcomer to be ready for a path full of new and complex experiences, but above all, to consider that programs such as the IEP Bridging Program are there to accompany and guide our steps expertly to achieve the best professional success.”

Isnalvis’ Takeaway

“The sacrifice was undoubtedly worthwhile. Forever grateful for the knowledge, friendships, and memories made during this incredible chapter. On to the next adventure!”

Her journey through the IEP Certificate Program has been one of growth, resilience, and newfound confidence. With enhanced communication skills, professional networks, and a deep understanding of the Canadian job market, Isnalvis is ready for the next chapter of her career in Canada.