Rusieljs G. Lunasco

Prof. Glory during a trip to Morraine Lake, Banff.

CPU Kindergarten faculty Prof. Praise Enriquez- Glory shared her experience as a graduate student in Canada at the height of the lockdown.

Prof. Glory studied supervised PhD Research Studies in Algonquin College, Ottawa Campus through the Canadian Bureau of International Education (CBIE) – CHED PhD Sandwich Program, with the assistance of Mr. Rudy Sabas, CBIE consultant to CHED Phils.

She left Iloilo on January 9, 2020. “A Filipino couple who were from Batangas were my homestay hosts for the duration of my stay in Ottawa,” said Prof. Glory.

With Damien Dunne – Associate Director, International Recruitment and Business Development Algonquin College.

Before the pandemic, she says she was able to spend time with fellow Centralians – Bahandi Canada members, Jeremiah Johnrey Bautista, and Rinand Escuban former Office of Student Affair Director. “I also had the opportunity to visit family and fellow Centralians in Edmonton, Alberta in the Summer and the Winter of 2020 as well. Graduates of the CPU College of Commerce hosted me in their homes and brought me to see the magnificent lakes in Banff. “

Prof. Glory says she only had two and half months of active Campus Life before Ottawa closed down due to the pandemic. Because of this, her research had to change direction three times because of the restrictions.

“My validated instruments had to be discarded, opportunities to shadow teach early childhood educators in the ECE centres under the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (ODSB) had to be cancelled, visits to research facilities, and the chance to join the CBIE Yearly Conference, too. Fortunately, the Algonquin College Library was made available online and so studying from home was still okay.”

With former Office of Student Affairs Director Mr. Rinand Escuban and his wife Dr. Lory Joy.

She completed her research entitled “Early Years Learner Curriculum (EYLC) for Three to Four Year Old Children in the Philippines.” Her Research Supervisors were Stephanie Pagan, Ph.D., Research Officer, Research, Evaluation, and Analytics Division, Ottawa-Carleton District School Board and Part-time Professor, School of health & Community Studies, Algonquin College.

“I have lots to thank for the opportunity to study and complete my research abroad: my professors in CPU who believed in me and encourage me to pursue this scholarship, the International Office led my Maam Zerrudo, and also Maam Lei- both of whom were just one text away and took care of me from 8,000 miles away, The President’s Office, my principal, Maam Hannah Siosan who supported me and approved my leave without second thoughts. I am also grateful for my husband, Emar, who held the fort down while I was away chasing my ambitions in a foreign country. He ran our home and made sure to smother our kids with love enough for the both of us while I was away, and never once complained. My Nanay, Tatay, Tas, and my in laws who took turns bringing groceries and food to our house during the lockdown. Jem Bautista who sent me food from six hours away. My church, First Southern Baltist Church for praying for and with me To the Escubans, too, who made sure I had a family even when they were six hours away from me in Toronto. “

“But most of all, I praise the Lord. The year 2020 was a challenging year to say the least but it was the year His words came alive for me. He never left me nor has he forsaken me. I came to Him when I was burdened and He gave me rest. When I was struggling with self-doubt and burnout, He made sure I knew that I was fearfully and wonderfully made. And every day, I wake up peaceful as I wait for the deliverance that He will bring me. This chance to study in Canada was God’s perfect timing indeed because like His promise in Isaiah, “When the time is right, I, the Lord will make it happen.” It took almost two years of waiting for my application to be approved, but when it was time, oh did He make it happen! He opened opportunities for me, taught me life lessons, and made me grow. My experience in Ottawa was like an Encountering God retreat – for an entire year! The Lord is good, He is able, and He is worthy of all praises!”

Prof. Glory finally flew back home from Ottawa January 14, 2021 EST, and arrived in the Philippines in January 16, 2021 PST.