The Desire to Make a Difference Inspired Jordan O’Handley (BHSc ’26) to Pursue a Career in Addictions and Mental Health Counselling

For Jordan O’Handley (BHSc ’26), it wasn’t just about choosing a career, it was about discovering a purpose. From the experiences that first sparked their interest to the lessons they’ve learned along the way, Jordan’s journey has been shaped by empathy, resilience and a commitment to making a difference.

“When I found the addictions counselling program here at ULethbridge, things just seemed to shift into place, and I knew I had to attend the program.”

Meet Jordan | Passionate. Generous. Activist
Program: Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHSc)

Why did you choose your program of study?

Growing up in the small town of Claresholm, Alta., I always felt different from those around me. I was the weird kid, the lesbian, the one with strong political opinions, always debating in class. I also saw a lot of addiction, mostly at home with my siblings. I saw firsthand how addiction can rip a family apart, and I went into addictions counselling because I wanted to help families like mine and people like my siblings. Perhaps selfishly, I wanted to help people like me.

"I was fascinated by the psychology and science behind addiction, the social determinants, and the comorbidities."

How have your professors or mentors influenced your learning and personal growth?

The biggest influence on my learning and personal growth was Leah Webster (BHSc '19), my program supervisor at the ULethbridge Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Prevention (SGBVP) office, where I completed my practicum. Leah never stopped believing in me and encouraging me to challenge myself and step out of my comfort zone, while also helping me to prioritize how to slow down and take care of myself. She helped me learn how to do things while anxious, rather than how to set it aside and ignore it. My confidence in myself and who I am would never be where it is right now without her.

What has been your most memorable or meaningful experience at ULethbridge so far? 

Q-Space has by far been the most memorable experience at ULethbridge so far. I have been on their executive team for four years now, and it hurts to have to leave it now that I am graduating. I met so many amazing people, lifelong friends and companions through that club that I never would have met otherwise. I have made so many memories at events with Q-Space, and experienced things I would have been too scared to do without the club. My years as co-chair have also taught me leadership skills I never thought I was capable of.

Who has inspired you and how?

SO many people have inspired me! Everyone at the SGBVP office inspired me to think outside of the box and to not understate my own talents.

Cade Fowler — my Q-Space co-chair in crime — has always inspired me to slow down and see the brighter side of things when I get stuck in a pessimistic mindset, and has always been the kindest and most genuine human I have ever known.

Tyler Anderson — my practicum office buddy — inspired me to look into a master’s degree in social work, in hopes that I can be even half as compassionate and understanding as they are.

And Leah Webster will always inspire me to choose to see the good — in people, in the world and in the future.

What dreams, goals or plans are you most excited to pursue after your time at ULethbridge?

I have recently landed my dream job working for Pro-Choice YQL, where I make a difference in people’s lives every day, so I plan to work there as long as they let me. But I also plan on doing as much activism as I can for sexual violence, reproductive rights, trans rights, harm reduction and more!

What advice would you share with new students about to begin their AMHC journey at ULethbridge?

Find what you’re passionate about, and I promise there will be others who are passionate about the same things. ULethbridge has such a broad student body, with such a wealth of knowledge and perspectives, that it is basically impossible not to find others who share the same passions.