Diedre McLaren - Winner of Top Paper Award in Employability and Self-development, studied at B&B University College

Senior Secretary, Diedre, plans to use her qualification to build up her business expertise and before launching her own production business.  Here is what she told us:

"As a believer in God and His ability to do all things, I know that I will reach my goal with His never-failing love. I am a 27 years professional individual who is passionate about business and a desire to build a corporation for my family. I was born into an extended family in west rural St. Andrew, Jamaica; to parents who were a farmer and housewife.  I have served in the private sector for over four months and I have been working in the public sector as Senior Secretary for the past four years. I hope to gain knowledge of business operations in both sectors.

I had a desire to study in England and earn an internationally accredited degree but, not being able to afford same, I was introduced to the B & B University College where I could persue an equivalent and further my study at a more affordable cost. So, I had applied for the Business Management Programme and got accepted. Fortunately, the examination body's accreditation thrills me and its benefit in allowing students to take a quicker route to a Bachelors or MBA programme. Also, I was satisfied with the students' resources to develop their skills and boost their careers.

After completing my ABE qualification, my plans are to further my studies in Production & Operations Management while continue working to gain advance knowledge about the business environment and its operations. Thereafter, I will seek to start my own business in the production industry.

The best thing about studying with ABE is that you pay less for more. The qualification is recognised worldwide, and it is more affordable than other tertiary institutions in Jamaica whose qualifications are not internationally recognised. Also, the credits that each course offers are more than what other institutions offer for three times or more the amount ABE costs. The resources provided are enriched and tailored to career enhancement.

In studying with ABE, I have gained and improved my financial skills. I have also improved tremendously in my interpersonal skills.  As my former high school; Merl Grove High School's motto states, "Labor Omnia Vincit" (Hard Work Overcomes All Difficulties). I believe in this motto wholeheartedly because it is the only way we can truly overcome any difficulty we may encounter in our academic pursuit. My mother would say "practice makes perfect"; studying is for those who don't know, but the only way to know is to study and work hard at what seems challenging now.  Also, success does not come easy; it requires hard work and sacrifices.

My long-term career plan is to build a corporation for my family; focusing mostly on the production industry."