When Pem Dem arrived at Pearson College from the tiny kingdom of Bhutan, it was the first time she had left home.  Now, she is the first woman in her family ever to have gone to university.  Having gained an honours degree in Computer Science from the University of Toronto, and a MBA from the University of Southern California, she now works at Deloitte & Touche LLP.

 

Pem’s years at Pearson College have inspired her to give to others.  She keeps in touch with her host families, who, she says, “gave very generously”, and continues to be inspired by the community service that was such a big part of Pearson life.  “I still remember Sheila, an older lady we used to sing for, and all the others that we tried in our little ways, to make a difference for”.  Pem continues to volunteer for the elderly and children with special needs and tutors in Los Angeles public schools.

 

The time Pem spent at Pearson College has imbued in her a deep appreciation for the opportunity she received enabling her to get the best education, pursue a successful career, make friends across the globe as well as to give back to the community. Pem is now able to put a face to world issues and, she says, “that makes the whole difference”.