Jill Kendall

“Without the support I received, the financial burden of my educational pursuit to realize my dreams and goals would be far greater.” ~ Jill Kendall

Jill Kendall, from Lewisporte, Newfoundland, said that deciding to return to school in her 30s was a very intimidating experience. But after 15 years as an emergency room nurse, and having experienced work-related trauma, she ultimately decided it was time to make a major change.

Jill has a passion for photography, which she fell in love with while chasing the Northern Lights in Yellowknife several years ago. She took a leap of faith and relocated to P.E.I. to take Holland College’s Photography and Videography program.

“It was not a decision made lightly, but rather, took careful calculation,” said Kendall. “This included a period of self-reflection following the passing of my mother and consideration of the impending financial strain.”

Just a few weeks into the program Jill had never felt so excited and was eager every day to learn and practice the craft of photography. This affirmed for her that she had made the right decision in beginning a new career path.

“Without the support I received, the financial burden of my educational pursuit to realize my dreams and goals would be far greater,” said Kendall. “I aspire to open my own portrait studio and share images that evoke thought, dialogue, emotion, and imagination, as well as promote positivity and togetherness; both of which are vital in our current and challenging times.”

Jill received the 2021 Erskine Smith Memorial Award, and was one of five finalists short-listed from 51 nominations for the 2021 Earn a Car award, for which students are nominated by faculty and staff based on merit, character, and academic achievement.