Andrea

Hometown: Essex, ON

Program: 3rd year, Political Science

Plan for life after Brock: I hope to earn my paralegal license and then go to law school to pursue a career as a lawyer.

Extracurriculars at Brock: I am Co-President of Brock Model United Nations as well as a member of the Brock Pre-Law Society. To keep me active throughout the year, I also enjoy playing Intramural volleyball during the fall and winter semesters.

#1 item on my BrockU Bucket List: Complete the Campus-Wide Co-Curriculum and earn red cords at convocation!

Advice I would give my 1st year self: Get involved! It’s a great way to expand and explore your interests as well as meet new people.

When I was in grade 12 looking at post-secondary, I wish I knew: Receiving an awesome education from a university is more than academics; it’s also about experiences.

Some of my hobbies/favourite things to do are: being active, spending time with my friends, and shopping.

My go-to show to binge watch is… Snowpiercer, The Good Place, and Brooklyn 99

My favourite thing about Niagara is… Getting sushi downtown and getting Beechwood Doughnuts afterwards!

Colleen

Hometown: Mississauga, ON

Program: 4th year, Concurrent Education Primary/Junior – Child & Youth Studies and French Studies

Plan for life after Brock: To become an Elementary School French Teacher. I am also interested in pursuing a Master of Education or Clinical Psychology.

Extracurriculars at Brock: Throughout my time at Brock, I have been involved with the Brock Ambassador Team, the Concurrent Education Student Association, The Annual Fund, and the Brock French Club. I spent summer 2020 as a Smart Start Team Assistant and I am also an active participant in campus events and Brock recreation.

#1 item on my BrockU Bucket List: Get a picture with Boomer!

Advice I would give my 1st year self: Get involved! Explore all the extracurricular opportunities that Brock has to offer as early as possible.

When I was in grade 12 looking at post-secondary, I wish I knew: When looking at post-secondary options, I wish I had asked more about the extra-curricular opportunities available. I was focused on finding the best academic program for me, and while that is important, the University experience is so much more than just academics!

Some of my hobbies/favourite things to do are: Some of my hobbies include dance and spin – I take drop-in classes when I can. I also love to cook and bake, and I am always trying new recipes.

My go-to show to binge watch is… As much as I don’t like to admit it, I love reality TV. Survivor, Big Brother and The Bachelor are some of my favourites.

My favourite thing about Niagara is… Nature! Brock and the Niagara region are surrounded by beautiful trails, parks and the Falls of course.

Kylee

Hometown: Guelph, ON

Program: 2nd year, Concurrent Education Junior/Intermediate – General Sciences and French

Plan for life after Brock: My goal is to take an Additional Qualification course at Brock in Senior Biology to become a fully qualified high school science teacher. From there, I would love to complete a research-based Master of Education to keep my options open beyond teaching while still working within the education sector.

Extracurriculars at Brock: I have been involved in the Concurrent Education Student Association, the Society of Off-Campus Living (great if you’re not in residence first year), JUMP Math Tutoring (run by Brock through the Learning Disabilities Association of Niagara), International Conversation Partners, and Brock Power to Change.
#1 item on my BrockU Bucket List: I want to go to the Steel Blade Classic so badly. When COVID is a thing of the past I will be there front row, in full-on Brock gear, cheering to my fullest capacity!

Advice I would give my 1st year self: Don’t be shy in using your TAs as a resource for your classes. It took me a while, but once I started reaching out to them, getting feedback and advice, asking questions about course material, etc., my grades shot up. They are full of knowledge and always happy to help.

When I was in grade 12 looking at post-secondary, I wish I knew: That the community aspect, experiential resources, and mental health supports are equally, if not more important, than solely the academic excellence of an institution. University is a time commitment, and without your emotional health and relationships being bolstered by the institution you attend, it can be challenging not to flounder.

Some of my hobbies/favourite things to do are: hiking, reading, and swimming. At any point in the week, you can find me dragging my reluctant friends out to the Bruce Trail on campus to go for a walk or in the library trying to figure out how many books I can borrow before my backpack explodes.

My go -to show to binge watch is… Grey’s Anatomy or New Girl

My favourite thing about Niagara is… I’m obsessed with Mahtay Cafe in downtown St. Catharines. It is such a wonderful community institution with delicious coffee, yummy treats, open-mic nights, LGBTQ+ community groups, local choir practices… and the list goes on! It’s just a real vibey place to study or hang out with friends (and the open-mic night is a fun Thursday night treat to see local talent showcased).

Lauren

Hometown: Burlington, ON

Program: 4th year, Concurrent Education Intermediate/Senior – Mathematics and Physics

Plan for life after Brock: The first thing I want to do is travel! I then hope to pursue a career in teaching high school math.

Extracurriculars at Brock: I was a part of the Residence Action Council in my first year and was a Residence Tour Attendant showing my residence room on campus tours. I have been a participant in many intramurals and have also volunteered at Open House.

#1 item on my BrockU Bucket List: Visit Alphie’s Trough

Advice I would give my 1st year self: socialize lots and do not be shy. Don’t be afraid to talk to people and make friends! I would also tell my first-year self that there is more to university than just academics… Get involved!

When I was in grade 12 looking at post-secondary, I wish I knew: I wish I was more interested in extracurricular activities and life outside the classroom. I wish I wasn’t so caught up in admission requirements. I’m lucky I did make the right choice as Brock has so much to offer that satisfies so many different interests. But not being interested in extracurriculars until coming to university almost made me make the mistake of going somewhere else!

Some of my hobbies/favourite things to do are: I love being outside and exploring new spots in nature. I love hiking and canoeing with my friends and family. I’ve also recently gotten into fishing with my dad. And of course, I love watching Netflix on my down time.

My go-to show to binge watch is… Friends

My favourite thing about Niagara is… Hiking the Niagara Glen Trail

Liam

Hometown: Stellarton, NS

Program: 3rd year, Sport Management with a minor in Film Studies

Plan for life after Brock: Eventually work in a non-profit sporting organization

Extracurriculars at Brock: I have served as the President of the Residence Action Council in my first year and am now a member of both the Sport Management Council and the Faculty of Applied Health Sciences Association. I am also an active participant in Brock Intramurals, a notetaker for Student Accessibility Services, and I have worked for the Smart Start team for the past two summers.

#1 item on my BrockU Bucket List: Visit another country as a member of the Brock community.

Advice I would give my 1st year self: Take every opportunity you can get to build connections within the Brock community, and don’t be afraid to speak up in classes and visit your professors during office hours.

When I was in grade 12 looking at post-secondary, I wish I knew: The element of community at a university is most important thing in my opinion.

Some of my hobbies/favourite things to do are: Playing basketball, watching movies, and reading.

My go -to show to binge watch is… The Office

My favourite thing about Niagara is… Discovering all the unique shops and restaurants in downtown St. Catharines.

Sloane

Hometown: Newmarket, ON

Program: 3rd year, Concurrent Education Intermediate/Senior – English and History

Plan for life after Brock: I want to complete a Master of Education at Brock or work full time in the Recruitment Office.

Extracurriculars at Brock: I have been involved in the Residence Action Council when I was in my first year. I was a Peer Mentor for the Volunteerism and Leadership LLC in my second year, and I just finished my first summer with the Smart Start team.

#1 item on my BrockU Bucket List: To finish the CWC.

Advice I would give my 1st year self: To get involved more! It seems very daunting at first, but the Brock community is the most welcoming I have seen. There are so many clubs and volunteer opportunities on and off campus, which is a great way to meet new people and make connections.

When I was in grade 12 looking at post-secondary, I wish I knew: about the initiatives for students like virtual tours and live chats; I would have taken advantage of those.
Some of my hobbies/favourite things to do are: I love to listen to music and volunteer. I volunteer in the Niagara community with the John Howard society and it’s one of my favourite things.

My go-to show to binge watch is… Atypical

My favourite thing about Niagara is… The Botanical Gardens. Niagara has the most beautiful areas I have ever seen.

Sabrina

Hometown: Mississauga, ON

Program: 4th year, Concurrent Education Intermediate/Senior – English and Geography

Plan for life after Brock: Master of Education and Administration at Brock. Career Goal: Superintendent of the schoolboard and eventually do my PhD and come back to teach at Brock.

Extracurriculars at Brock: Varsity Cheer

#1 item on my BrockU Bucket List: Finish my Campus Wide Co-Curriculum

Advice I would give my 1st year self: Do not be afraid to go to your professors’ office hours. They have those hours to help you and they genuinely want you to succeed.

When I was in grade 12 looking at post-secondary, I wish I knew: how impactful the connections I would make at university would be. I have gained so much experience both in terms of my future career aspirations and my extracurriculars, all because of the experiential learning and teams that I am a part of here at Brock.

Some of my hobbies/favourite things to do are: I love to run and workout. I also like to spend time with my family and dog (the cutest chocolate lab).

My go-to show to binge watch is… Brooklyn 99 and Family Guy

My favourite thing about Niagara is… The Bruce Trail. I love to run, and Niagara is the perfect place to do that. The Bruce Trail runs through campus and it’s a great way to see some of the beautiful scenery we have so close to campus.

Sally

Hometown: Mississauga, ON

Program: 2nd year, Concurrent Education Junior/Intermediate

Plan for life after Brock: After I complete my degrees at Brock, I hope to complete a Master of Education and become a French teacher

Extracurriculars at Brock: I have been a member of the Cheerleading team, the Brock Leaders Citizenship Society (BLCS), the French Club, I volunteer with the LDANR and I have been working towards completing the Campus Wide Co-Curriculum.

#1 item on my BrockU Bucket List: The Grape Stomp

Advice I would give my 1st year self: University isn’t as daunting as one might think and to utilize the amazing resources that Brock has to offer. There are lots of resources that are available to students that allows for a smooth transition from high school to university. I would also say to reach out to professors or Teaching Assistants and attend their office hours. They aren’t as scary as you might think, and they are very helpful and want you to succeed.

When I was in grade 12 looking at post-secondary, I wish I knew: about all the extracurriculars and opportunities each school had. I didn’t know about all the unique things that Brock had when I first chose the school, but I learned about them in my first year, and I am so happy that I chose Brock. Having this knowledge would have had influenced my decision and would have made the ‘Pros’ list for Brock even bigger.

Some of my hobbies/favourite things to do are: I like reading, listening to music, and hanging out with friends!

My go-to show to binge watch is… There are too many shows to choose from and I can’t pick one!

My favourite thing about Niagara is… I love exploring the region with my friends and seeing all the beautiful and fun things that the Niagara region has to offer.

Sarah E

Hometown: Waterloo, ON

Program: 4th year, Concurrent Education Primary/Junior

Plan for life after Brock: My goal is to become an elementary teacher and teach kindergarten. I also plan on spending a few years teaching abroad.

Extracurriculars at Brock: I have been a member of the Brock Dance club for three years and have enjoyed getting active in intramurals, playing Women’s Doubles Badminton and Co-ed Dodgeball. I was also a Building Advocate for Earp residence in my first year. This is my second year as a Brock Ambassador and last year I also worked Brock’s Recruitment Call Campaign. I love to attend various arts, athletics and academic-based events as well.

#1 item on my BrockU Bucket List: Attend a fitness class in the Walker Sports Complex

Advice I would give my 1st year self: Don’t be afraid to jump in right away. Getting involved with clubs and other events on campus is a great way to make friends and I wish I would have become a member of some clubs sooner.

When I was in grade 12 looking at post-secondary, I wish I knew: Visiting the campus is the best way to tell if the post-secondary option you are looking at is for you. As soon as I stepped foot on Brock’s campus, I felt at home. Going on tours and attending open houses is a great way to get the full experience.

Some of my hobbies/favourite things to do are: dance, read, paint, bake, walk, bike, play board games, watch Netflix, and spend time with friends and family!

My go -to show to binge watch is… Friends

My favourite thing about Niagara is… being so close to Clifton Hill. My friends and I love spending time at the falls and mini golfing.

Sarah M

Hometown: Brampton, ON

Program: 3rd year, Concurrent Education Primary/Junior

Plan for life after Brock: Once I graduate from the Concurrent Education program at Brock, I plan to complete the necessary Additional Qualifications to become a registered Special Education teacher. I can’t wait to have a classroom to call my very own one day!

Extracurriculars at Brock: During my time at Brock, I have been fortunate enough to participate in lots of extracurriculars and additional experiences, outside of my scheduled classes! I have had the pleasure of working in several positions at Brock, including my role as a Teaching Assistant in the Child and Youth Studies Department, as well as my former role on the Smart Start Team. In addition, I have enjoyed my time volunteering at the Niagara Children’s Centre, participating as a member of Brock’s Champions of Change club, volunteering as a tutor for children in the area, and being a member of the Golden Key International Honours Society.

#1 item on my BrockU Bucket List: Participate in an International Experience

Advice I would give my 1st year self: I would tell myself to not be afraid to ask for help! Brock has so many amazing services that I would have benefitted from in first year, if I had just reached out.

When I was in grade 12 looking at post-secondary, I wish I knew: I wish I had understood that there are people behind the system! I remember being really overwhelmed during the application/decision process and I wish I had known that there were real people at Brock that were waiting and wanting to talk to me and help me through the process.

Some of my hobbies/favourite things to do are: Music has always been a big part of my life, so you will often hear me singing (when I think no one is listening) or playing around with an instrument. I also LOVE to bake!

My go-to show to binge watch is… Bones

My favourite thing about Niagara is… exploring the wineries and the beauty of the Niagara Escarpment

Tricia

Hometown: Oakville, ON

Program: 4th year, Concurrent Education Junior/Intermediate – French and Geography

Plan for life after Brock: I would love to teach abroad – maybe in South Africa or somewhere in the United Kingdom. Eventually, my goal would be to complete a Master of Education and Administration.

Extracurriculars at Brock: Varsity Cheer

#1 item on my BrockU Bucket List: The Grape Stomp

Advice I would give my 1st year self: I would tell myself to join everything of interest. I was quite timid and unsure if clubs would want first year students like myself, but they are literally intended to grow character and build community! Get involved in those activities and clubs that spark your curiosity.

When I was in grade 12 looking at post-secondary, I wish I knew: I was so worried while choosing a university and I was stuck between two schools. I wish I could’ve told myself to trust my gut and to not be easily influenced by the people around me. You are choosing the best possible fit for you! Choose a school where you feel most at home, the rest will fall into place.

Some of my hobbies/favourite things to do are: My favourite thing to do is go to spin class, I love starting my day by going to Spinco each morning. I also really enjoying painting and arts & crafts.

My go-to show to binge watch is… Gossip Girl

My favourite thing about Niagara is… Niagara is so beautiful. We are surrounded by green space and waterfalls, making it a great place to go on adventures.

Vani

Hometown: Welland, ON

Program: 3rd year Medical Sciences, with a minor in Business

Plan for life after Brock: to pursue a research-based career

Extracurriculars at Brock: Brock Leaders Citizenship Society, Golden Key International Honours Society, Med Plus, Rotaract, working with Student Life, and now working as a Brock Ambassador!

#1 item on my BrockU Bucket List: to utilize every on-campus resource that I have access to

Advice I would give my 1st year self: Get involved in a wide variety of extracurriculars – even clubs that you’ve never heard about! You don’t know what you love until you try it.

When I was in grade 12 looking at post-secondary, I wish I knew: to take the time to tour your potential school’s campus. Whether it’s in person or virtually, touring lets you discover what kind of campus layout and atmosphere you like.

Some of my hobbies/favourite things to do are: Hiking, gardening, dance, and spending time with friends!

My go-to show to binge watch is… The Office

My favourite thing about Niagara is… Hiking at the Niagara Gorge!