Coaching Hockey
Coaching in the female hockey program that I helped build from the ground up was a pivotal experience that ignited my belief in my ability to become a teacher. While I had always harboured a desire to pursue teaching in the back of my mind, I lacked the confidence and perceived skills to actively pursue my dream. However, witnessing the growth of the girls in my program and providing them with a nurturing environment where they could take risks and develop both their game and social skills profoundly impacted me. Seeing the positive impact, I could have on these young athletes and recognizing the potential to make a lasting difference in their lives solidified my determination to pursue teaching as a lifelong vocation. This experience instilled in me a sense of purpose and reaffirmed my belief in the transformative power of education.
Playing Sports
Growing up, I immersed myself in multiple sports, including soccer, basketball, figure skating, hockey, dance, marksmanship, and archery. Engaging in these diverse athletic pursuits taught me the significance of providing students with opportunities to participate in activities where they feel cared for and valued. Sports served as an outlet for me during times when I wasn’t feeling great about other aspects of my life, and I always found solace in knowing I had supportive coaches and mentors to turn to. As a future educator, I aspire to model my classroom after the nurturing environments I experienced in sports. I aim to create a space where students feel safe and reassured, knowing they are valued and supported regardless of what they may be going through. Drawing from my background in sports, I recognize the importance of physical activity in fostering holistic well-being. While my classroom will prioritize a safe environment for learning, I also intend to incorporate regular movement breaks and opportunities for physical activity to ensure my students thrive both academically and physically.
BC Wildlife Federation Youth Delegate
Being selected to represent the East Kootenay region at the BC Wildlife Federation Annual General Meeting as a youth delegate for three consecutive years was a tremendous honour and a profoundly enriching experience. Attending these AGMs provided me with unparalleled learning opportunities, allowing me to deepen my understanding of our province’s stunning landscapes, wildlife, and ecosystems. Interacting with various professionals and engaging in diverse experiences each year broadened my perspective and instilled in me a deep appreciation for the natural world. Every AGM presented a unique approach to learning from the land and emphasized the importance of ensuring that future generations can continue to benefit from these invaluable lessons. The knowledge and resources I gained from these experiences will be invaluable as I integrate more place-based learning into my teaching practice. I am eager to share not only my passion for the outdoors with my students but also strategies for conserving and protecting the ecosystems that we are fortunate to have. These experiences have equipped me with the tools necessary to inspire and empower my students to become stewards of the environment.