Master of Arts (incomplete), Educational Counselling (University of Ottawa); Honours BA, Economics and Political Science (Queen’s University)

What is the single most important piece of advice to students leaving high school?

“Make time in your life for the things that pique your curiosity, regardless of how “practical” they seem. Curiosities lead to passion, and passion, combined with your unique talent, will create purpose. Purposeful people make a living doing things they would do for free. As they say, “do something you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life.”

Honours BA, Specialization in Communication, Minor in Sociology (University of Ottawa)

What is the single most important piece of advice to students leaving high school?

“Work hard and stay humble. Good things come to those who are patient and persistent.”

LL.L. in Quebec Civil Law (University of Ottawa); LL.B. with Certificate in Environmental Law (Dalhousie University); BA, Political Studies (Mount Saint Vincent University)

What is the career achievement you are most proud of?

“Walking away from a “safe” career in law to start my own business. It was scary, risky, and much harder than I expected it to be, but I’m proud that I believed in myself enough to do it, and that I was resilient enough to stick with it and build a life where I can use my social skills and creativity every day.”

BA with a concentration in Psychology (Trent University); Bachelor of Education (University of Ottawa)

What is the single most important piece of advice to students leaving high school?

“Life is a marathon and not a sprint. Don’t panic if you don’t know what you want to do. Be like a sponge and live life: be curious, explore your surroundings, try different things, learn from those around you, travel, learn about what interests you and find opportunities that make you feel alive and purposeful! Celebrate your mistakes and move on!”

MA in Counselling Psychology (Yorkville University); BA, double majeure ès lettres françaises et théâtre (Université d’Ottawa)

What is the craeer achievement you are most proud of?

“My proudest moments are found in the little drops of change I can see around me. Being a mentor is extremely fulfilling because I can see the personal growth in my colleagues, my students, and myself. I would say my proudest moment this summer was standing beside a teary-eyed mother who was extremely relieved their child would have access to my help during their university transition. In moments like this, I know that what I do matters.”

What advice would you give a student considering taking a Discover Year?

“My advice for any student who is thinking of taking a Discover Year is do it! If you have a slight interest or curiosity in something, throw yourself into it, even if it is uncomfortable. You will build and have an amazing community to support you through every step of the way. I discovered that when I did that, I opened so many doors and opportunities I could have never imagined.”

What is the greatest lesson you took away from your Discover Year?

“Do in life what feels true to you. Take on new things that excite you, push you, and better you as a person. Explore your interests but be yourself – for genuine character and active curiosity will bring you far.”