Some testimonials and stories leave a mark, inspire, and make you want to dare. The story of Marie-Ève, a mother of four living in a mining town in Northern Quebec, is one of them. Despite a busy daily life, she decided to resume her studies through distance learning with ChallengeU. Here is his story: an example of perseverance, courage, and resilience.
Why return to studies
I began my journey in 2026 with the course in Secondary EnglishShortly after giving birth to my youngest, I often saw posts on Facebook regarding the ChallengeU platform. I thought to myself, “Why not? It’s free, I can do it from home… At worst, it doesn’t work; at best, it changes my life.”
Before that, I completed an AEC program in early childhood education. It wasn’t the profession itself that bothered me, because, as we know, there’s a shortage of educators everywhere. But it was mainly the working conditions and the salary that made me reconsider. When you live in a remote area, I believe it’s possible to find better opportunities, in better conditions, especially with the ever-increasing cost of living. That’s when I realized I needed my high school diploma (DES) to access other courses, other careers, and open new doors for myself.
Studying with four children at home
My full-time job is taking care of my family. With four girls at home, we’re never bored! When we moved to Fermont, we made a family decision: since daycares are scarce and my partner could provide for our needs, I was going to stay home.
But between meals, naps, homework, and everything else, I still felt the need to do something for myself. What helped me get back on track was the freedom I have to study whenever I have a free moment: during my youngest child’s nap, when the older ones are at school, or in the evening, once the house is quiet. No need to travel, no stress about a babysitter or transportation.
For a mom like me, this flexibility is really what made my baby’s back-to-school studies possible. Without it, I don’t think I could have started. Now, I can progress at my own pace, one course at a time, while still being there for my children.
Challenges, but constant support
I haven’t always had an easy relationship with school. I never had an official diagnosis, but I had difficulty concentrating and staying motivated. At 16, I was enrolled in a program for students who had dropped out, but when that came, I started working full-time. Since I had a salary and some stability, I convinced myself that it was enough. Not having gone back to school, I preferred to abandon my studies, a decision that seemed easier at the time.
Some subjects were more difficult for me, like English, because it’s not my native language. Luckily, I had a native English-speaking friend to help me. And when I was in class, I really took the time to listen to her carefully instead of asking her to speak to me in French, so I could understand more easily. This allowed me to improve and adapt to the language better.
But what makes all the difference is the support I receive from the teachers. When I get stuck, I ask questions. I ask for more exercises or explanations. I’ve even had personalized videos to explain things to me.CST 4 mathematics step. It helped me a lot to regain my self-confidence.
My motivation be a role model for my children.
My partner supports me in everything I do, but my greatest motivation is my children. I want to show them that even if it’s not easy, you can succeed if you persevere. When they see me studying, I tell them, “Mommy’s at school too.”
Every time I take an exam, I feel an immense sense of pride. Recently, I got 92%Frenchh 4For someone like me who never liked this subject, it’s an incredible source of pride! Before an exam, I sometimes felt insecure, so I would ask for extra practice. I thought I was being a pain, but in the end, the teachers were always there. It’s proof that extra work makes a difference, and that I’m capable of succeeding.
Are you hesitating?
If you’re hesitating to sign up, I’d say go for it, give it a try. It might not be for everyone, because it requires motivation and independence, but honestly, you have nothing to lose.
Indyourobjective Keep that in mind and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Don’t be embarrassed, because that’s what the teachers are there for! If you ever get stuck, there are also…support groupsIt’s really reassuring to know that we’re not alone in this.
The ChallengeU platform is easy to use, even if you’re not very computer savvy. The teachers are approachable, available, and efficien. You can tell they want you to succeed. I just wish there were more courses available so I could complete all my credits; I’ll have to go to adult education for some. But what’s offered is really well done.