The Journey from Jamaica

Michelle Madden, Creative Door’s AR and Credit Specialist, made the move from the gorgeous island of Jamaica to Canada and went back to school at NAIT’s Centre for Applied Technology. Immersing herself in the student activities and clubs, Michelle got involved with NAIT’s International Centre, where she assists students from overseas as they make the transition and settle into the Canadian way of life.

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After deciding to go back to school and complete the Chartered Professional Accountant designation, Michelle chose to move to Edmonton, Alberta to enroll in the prerequisite courses.  She joined NAIT in 2016 to complete the Bachelors in Applied Accounting degree.

During her time at NAIT, Michelle wanted to give back to the institution and decided to volunteer her time at the International Centre by assisting with event planning, front desk duties, data entry, and other administrative efforts. Foreign students often struggle to find a niche while being away from home, and the International Centre at NAIT provided support by bringing together all students to bond and grow from each others’ experience. Whether it’s assisting them with bursary applications or giving tips on how to cope with the Canadian winter, Michelle happily helps with it all.

Giving Thanks on a Large Scale

Wanting to familiarize herself with the student activities at NAIT, Michelle applied to be one of the student callers at the first ever Thank-A-Thon, a formal initiative that was a part of the Essential Campaign conducted by NAIT to raise funds for various faculties. There was a demand for applicants with customer service experience and excellent communication skills. Michelle’s background in customer service at her previous job gave her the advantage to be a desirable applicant. After being chosen as one among the six student callers, Michelle was responsible for calling alumni, past instructors, past and present employees, chairpersons, parents, board members, corporate companies, and other donors to formally express NAIT’s gratitude for their contributions towards the different funds.

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The Essential Campaign collected funds of over $123 Million for various sectors of NAIT, like the Ooks sports teams, as well as for the construction of new buildings and student facilities, developing mental health services, and other events and activities organized for the students and faculty. A lack of proper student recreational spaces was a growing concern, and with the funds raised during the Essential Campaign, NAIT could enhance its campus with additional lounge areas and meeting spaces for students to enjoy.

The Gift of Giving: Why It Matters

Michelle thoroughly enjoyed the experience of being a part of NAIT’s first ever “Thank-A-Thon” and could see the bigger picture. The contributions made by the generous donors allowed those students who could not afford tuition fees to still graduate and have a successful future. The donations towards the mental health services were significant and played an important role with providing students with necessary supports during final exam season, when mental stress is a huge inhibiting factor.


“The gift that you give is not just a simple donation, but a life changing contribution that can make a crucial difference in the life of a student. Whether it’s a donation towards the sports team, or a scholarship fund, every penny truly counts.”


Moved by the funds raised by the Essential Campaign, and the testimonials of students who benefited from these contributions, Michelle decided to donate as well. She also contributes to her alma mater in her home country and  highly encourages everyone to give back to their schools, universities, communities, and other facilities that provide opportunities for growth and success. 

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