Finding Your True Calling: Meet Kassandra Jabalee

As the saying goes, there’s no place like home. That’s a concept echoed by three-time CBU graduate, Kassandra Jabalee. Traveling to campus each day from Bras d’Or, Kassandra first came to CBU to remain close to family and friends while pursuing her university education.

Since then, Kassandra has graduated with a four-year Bachelor of Arts, major in Political Science and minor in History, followed by a three-year Bachelor of Arts, major in Psychology, before joining the first cohort of the Bachelor of Social Work program. Now, crossing the stage at this year’s Spring Convocation, she completes this significant chapter of her academic journey.

Kassandra says it’s the supportive community that kept her coming back to CBU. “The professors are incredible people who truly care about their students and do everything they can to help them succeed,” she says. “With smaller class sizes, you receive personalized attention, forging stronger relationships. I always felt in good hands at CBU, knowing if any difficulties arose, I had the support to help me through.”

Before coming to CBU, Kassandra felt she lacked self-confidence and direction. “CBU allowed me to explore many options and provided opportunities I never would have gotten elsewhere,” she shares. “Being here altered my life’s direction and significantly impacted my future in the best ways possible, supporting my personal growth while exposing me to new ideas and worldviews.”

When the Bachelor of Social Work program first opened applications in the winter of 2023, Kassandra quickly applied, eager to further diversify her portfolio. “Deep down, I always knew I wanted to be a social worker and make a difference in my community,” she says. “The Bachelor of Social Work program provided the perfect opportunity to build that foundation.”

Kassandra says the program offered her numerous new experiences, including helping to establish the first Social Work Society and being part of the planning committee for the inaugural Indigenous Social Work Conference. “I have immense pride and gratitude for being part of the first cohort of students,” she says. “I couldn’t have asked for a better experience or group of classmates to complete this journey with.”

Kassandra recently completed her final placement with Primary Health in various collaborative clinics, an experience she thoroughly enjoyed. Working alongside social workers and multidisciplinary teams while supporting kind-hearted patients was deeply fulfilling. Following her graduation, Kassandra plans to remain in Cape Breton and pursue a career in the mental health industry to create positive change within her community.

 

Congratulations to Kassandra and the entire graduating class of Spring 2025!