Ashley Pierson, recipient of the Dhillon School of Business Gold Medal, is a standout graduate whose academic journey combined business, public health and a passion for research. From transformative international exchange experiences in Germany to co-authoring a research paper and presenting her work on children’s mobility, she made the most of every opportunity at the University of Lethbridge.
Her story is one of curiosity, ambition, versatility and a deep commitment to learning. Read on to discover how Ashley’s experiences shaped her as well as the advice she has for future students.
Meet Ashley | Medal won: Dhillon School of Business Gold Medal
Program: Bachelor of Management / Bachelor of Health Science Combined Degree | Major: General Management and Public Health
What does this academic recognition mean to you?
Being awarded the Dhillon School of Business Gold Medal is an incredible honour and a deeply meaningful recognition for me. I had the privilege of learning alongside some truly remarkable classmates, which makes this acknowledgment even more special. It is a recognition that reaffirms my passion for academia and inspires me to continue striving for excellence.
What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience?
I was fortunate enough to participate in an international three-week exchange through the International Summer School of Schmalkalden (ISSS) in Berlin and Schmalkalden, Germany. This immersive academic experience allowed me to study ethical strategic leadership, international trade and innovation management in a cross-cultural setting.
A particular highlight during that semester was learning from Professor Dr. Robert Richert who shared a first-hand account of the rise and fall of the Berlin Wall and delivered a memorable midnight lecture on time inconsistencies, which ran from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. and was followed by an exam that same morning. It was unlike any lecture I had ever experienced, intentionally designed to demonstrate how, in the world of business, one must often make decisions and perform under inconvenient or unpredictable conditions. The program offered a unique combination of academic challenge, cultural exchange and personal growth. In addition to gaining valuable insights into international business practices, I formed lasting friendships with fellow international students—making this one of the most enriching and unforgettable experiences of my undergraduate studies.
What is the most important lesson you learned during your time at ULethbridge?
I learned the value of embracing discomfort. Some of the most meaningful growth I experienced came from moments when I felt unsure or intimidated, whether it was asking a question in class or inquiring about a new opportunity. I realized that it is not only okay, but expected, not to have all the answers; what matters is being willing to seek them out. Additionally, my own beliefs and perspectives were continuously challenged and reshaped, broadening how I think, learn and engage with the world around me.
Is there someone specific who had an important influence on your ULethbridge experience?
Several professors played a meaningful role in making my time at the University of Lethbridge truly memorable. One of them, Dr. Eunjoo Koo, invited me to work as a teaching assistant for two of her business courses. The experience served as an excellent introduction to teaching and academic mentorship, and it inspired me to consider teaching as part of my future career.
Another professor who had a significant impact on my academic journey is Dr. Anastasia Stuart-Edwards. Although I had not met her before, I reached out to express my interest in her research and she generously agreed to supervise me for two independent studies. Under her mentorship, I strengthened my academic writing and statistical analysis skills. One of our projects, which examined perfectionism, evolved into a manuscript that we co-authored and submitted to a peer-reviewed journal under her guidance. She consistently challenged me to become a better researcher and was always willing to answer my many questions.
These experiences sparked my growing interest in research, which led me to pursue a public health practicum and apply for a summer research position with Dr. Richard Larouche. During this time, I collaborated with the Physical Activity, Transport & Health Research (PATH) Group, further developing my research skills. I served as a second reviewer for a systematic review and meta-analysis examining the physical activity transition model in low- and middle-income countries, which has been submitted for publication. Additionally, I was the lead author of a mixed-methods manuscript exploring social-ecological factors influencing children’s independent mobility in Southern Alberta. I presented the results at the Summer Research Showcase. Dr. Larouche provided me with several meaningful opportunities that solidified my desire to pursue a career in research.
Each of these faculty members has shaped my academic and professional development in unique and lasting ways.
What are your hopes/plans for the future?
I hope to apply and expand the management, public health, and research training I received at the University of Lethbridge. In September 2024, I began the Master of Science in Epidemiology program at Queen’s University, where I am currently working on my thesis under the supervision of Dr. Harriet Richardson and Dr. Vikki Ho. My research focuses on occupational exposures and the risk of prostate cancer in the CARTaGENE study. Looking ahead, I hope to continue contributing to research that informs evidence–based public health policy, while remaining committed to lifelong learning.
What advice would you give to those about to begin their journey at ULethbridge?
Your experience at ULethbridge can be so much more than just attending classes. There are countless opportunities to explore: join the U of L Singers, pursue an exchange or enroll in an independent study. Do it nervous, do it scared or do it with overwhelming enthusiasm—just make sure you do it. That is what will make you and your university experience stand out. After all, university is a time to not only pursue what you already enjoy, but to uncover new passions you did not know you had.
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