The Hub Annabelle Eherer: Landing at AU after a challenging journey
Transforming Lives: Learners at AU

Annabelle Eherer: Landing at AU after a challenging journey

By: Annie Eherer

Transforming Lives: Learners at AU is a testimonial series written by AU learners and alumni who want to share how AU helped shape their lives.

It’s a space for the people who have provided support and encouragement throughout their journey. It’s also a forum for sharing how AU is helping them achieve their educational goals and realize their future potential. Their stories are worth shouting from the rooftops! Have an inspiring story of your own to share? Email us! We’d love to hear it.

I never thought that one day I would be on the road to success.  

After dropping out of high school, I was on a terrible journey through addiction. Eventually, this addiction led me to rock bottom and nearly losing it all I had, including my daughter, Stella.  

I decided to put myself in a recovery program for six months, which helped me become the successful and sober person I am today. Since completing the program, I got engaged to a wonderful—and also sober—man, John. In February 2020, we had a baby boy named Kashton.  

Three months after his birth, I decided to get my General Education Development (GED) and passed with flying colours. Having this diploma changed my outlook on life and on education. I really wanted to show my children that education is important.  

I browsed numerous colleges and university websites for many months and came across AU. Thankfully, AU has many counselling services which helped me create a study schedule that’s right for me. Having this schedule makes it possible to be a full-time student—and a full-time mother.  

“After dropping out of high school, I was on a terrible journey through addiction. Eventually, this addiction led me to rock bottom and nearly losing it all I had, including my daughter, Stella. ”

– Annabelle Eherer

I always had a challenging time finding the educational path that was right for me, but AU made it possible. My experiences with addiction helped me realize that I wanted to help others enjoy a fulfilling and healthy life, which is why I am so happy that I’m pursuing a psychology degree through AU.  

I’ve gone from the bottom to being at the highest point in my life today. 

Annie Eherer was born and raised in the small rural town of Athabasca, Alta., and still resides there. After she overcame her own battle with mental health and addiction, she knew that she was destined to help others along their path of happiness and sobriety. In doing so, Eherer decided to advance her education by pursing her degree in psychology with Athabasca University. The motivation she has to help others, encourages her to focus on her education by studying multiple hours a day while also raising her two children. After her degree, Eherer hopes to continue towards her master’s degree in counselling and eventually land a career in clinical psychology.

Published:
  • October 8, 2021
Guest Blog from:
Annie Eherer