While attending the University of Lethbridge, Angelica Peters (BA (Co-op) '21) embraced a philosophy of going for experiences without thinking twice, and she definitely took some risks in this process. She'd blink her eyes and make the decision to pursue something new, even if she had no idea where she was going to end up. This attitude helped enhance Angelica's degree and taught her more than she ever believed possible.
What is your most memorable uLethbridge experience?
For my most memorable experience at U of L, I would like to list two that are incredibly significant to me. The first was when I completed the 2018 Spanish Summer Immersion Program in La Rioja, Spain, and studied intermediate Spanish, which was an amazing opportunity to experience a new culture. From touring the country coast to coast to making friends from all over the world and gaining the confidence to speak a new language for the first time, this was an experience I will never forget.
My next most memorable experience was in my first and second co-op work terms at The Prosperity Project. I worked on a national report based on gender diversity data tracking, which researched women in leadership roles in the Canadian workforce at multiple executive levels. This report was the first of its kind to be published in Canada, and I was listed as a contributor. This experience really allowed me to put my degree into action and advocate for change, as the work received over 50 million media impressions. You can learn more about this experience here.
What is the most important lesson you learned during your time in the Faculty of Arts & Science at uLethbridge?
The most important lesson I learned was that perseverance and confidence are key. I learned that my goals were possible when I displayed confidence and really put my mind towards them. Whether this was at a slow pace or a fast pace, I just learned to never give up on what I was hoping to achieve.
Is there someone specific who had an important influence on your uLethbridge experience?
My co-op coordinator Stacey Gaudette-Sharp was an incredible support. I completed an applied study doing archival research at the Galt Museum with her in Spring 2020, and our conversations about pursuing research further inspired me to pursue co-op work terms in this field. Stacey set up my entry into co-op during the first peek of the global pandemic. As a result, I completed three work terms as a Research Initiative Intern at a non-profit organization called The Prosperity Project and ultimately received the co-op designation on my degree. She was always very enthusiastic about my work and took such an interest in everything I accomplished over the 2020-2021 academic year, encouraging me to take my work further.
What are your hopes/plans for the future?
My hopes for the future are to pursue research further. I would like to use the research methods and writing skills I have learned through work terms and courses to create powerful and prosperous change. Specifically, in regards to creating equality and prosperity in the lives of others, and I could see myself starting my career by pursuing work in the non-profit sector.
What advice would you give to those who are about to begin their journey at uLethbridge?
The advice that made my experience here extraordinary is to never pass up on opportunities to have new experiences and have the confidence to pursue them regardless of if they scare you. Confidence is key, so put down a non-refundable deposit to go overseas or complete a work term or an applied study because these will be the experiences that enhance your degree and teach you more than you ever believed possible. I embraced a philosophy of going for experiences without thinking twice, and I definitely took some risks in this process. I'd blink my eyes and decide to pursue something new, even if I had no idea where I was going to end up.
While perseverance and confidence are essential, it's also vital to find your personal balance with your studies. For me building a network of caring relationships was very important to my success. Whatever that balance means for you, don't be afraid to step away from your workload every once in a while.