Isaac Foncha came halfway around the world to learn to be an educational assistant.

Originally from Cameroon, Foncha came to Lakeland from Thailand, where he lived for 20 years. Inspired by the students he taught and the experience of a relative who had already graduated from Lakeland, he enrolled in the educational assistant program at the Vermilion campus.

“I have been working in the field of education for a long time,” Foncha explains. “I've seen a lot of students struggling in school and needing assistance. I want to help with that. So many students are struggling with math and lagging behind because of it.”

Foncha's son, still in Thailand, is another inspiration for his goal of becoming an educational assistant.

“He's having some learning delays,” Foncha says. “I want to learn so I can help him.”

Foncha chose Lakeland because of how quickly he'd be able to gain the hands-on experience he needed to succeed as an educational assistant. The program includes two practicum placements.

“I'm going to be helping in classrooms in the next two weeks,” he says, excited. “It's incredible. I really love this program. I love the instructors and their style of teaching, and how quickly they provided us with hands-on learning opportunities.”

While he prepares for the classroom, Foncha is also getting ready for his first Canadian winter.

“I'm loving Canada,” Foncha says. “But it's a good thing I came when the weather was nice. Many people are telling me about the winter and I'm preparing for it.”

Photos: Isaac Foncha helps out at Open House.