Recipient of the School of Graduate Studies Silver Medals of Merit – Master of Education

Rita Lal wrote and successfully defended an exceptional thesis entitled “The Nature of Parent Participation at the High School Level: An Investigation”. In addition, she presented her thesis findings at an international peer reviewed conference and recently submitted an article for publication. Throughout her master’s program Rita maintained a 4.0 GPA and is now about to embark on doctoral studies; we wish her every success in her PhD.

What is your most memorable uLethbridge experience?
My most memorable uLethbridge experience was attending the Capstone presentations of all members from my cohort and many of them, in return, supporting me at my thesis colloquium.

Is there someone specific who had an important influence on your uLethbridge experience?
Each course provided the opportunity to foster relationships with amazing staff at the University of Lethbridge. Due to the thesis route, the capacity to strengthen relationships heightened. I was blessed to have not one, but two incredible mentors supervising my thesis: Dr. Pamela Adams and Dr. Carmen Mombourquette. Both professors provided encouragement, enthusiasm, and support. They believed I would succeed; they remained beside me until I did.

What is the most important lesson you learned?
The most important lesson I learned is to embrace change. There will be some things in your control, and many things that are not. Every interaction is purposeful in a journey and you will change and adapt based on the relationships around you. When you embrace the change process, you will continue to grow and embed the vision of a lifelong learner.

What are your hopes/plans for the future?
Recently, I was admitted to the doctoral program, Educational Administration and Leadership, specialization in Educational Policy Studies for September 2020, at the University of Alberta. I have the desire to learn and engage in research that identifies solutions to challenges and changes impacting leadership.

What advice would you give to students who are about to begin graduate studies journey?
Based on advice from someone influential in my life, I continue to live by her mantra and wish the same for others: When you have the choice, choose the path less travelled; the journey remains more important than the finishing moment. Celebration reflects a passion for the process and the ability to embrace challenges.