School of Graduate Studies Medal of Merit Winner Mahsa Zaredehabadi
Master of Fine Arts graduate Mahsa Zaredehabadi (MFA '25) learned that patience and giving your best effort go hand in hand during her time at ULethbridge. Mahsa is eager to continue working on creative projects that connect art, technology and community while supporting emerging artists as they begin their creative paths.
Meet Mahsa | Medal won: School of Graduate Studies Fine Arts Medal of Merit
Program: Master of Fine Arts | Major: Theatre & Dramatic Arts
What does this academic recognition mean to you?
Receiving this recognition is deeply meaningful to me. It represents not only the completion of an academic journey, but also the encouragement I needed to continue creating, questioning, and growing. As someone who pursued this path far from home and familiar language, this honour reminds me that effort, community support and passion can transcend barriers.
What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience?
The most memorable moments for me were during the production process of The Little Prince and A Seussified Christmas Carol. Seeing my ideas slowly take shape — through sketches, discussions, and lots of problem-solving — was both exciting and stressful. But in the end, being part of a team that respected each other's ideas made all the effort worth it.
What is the most important lesson you learned during your time at ULethbridge?
I learned that patience and giving your best effort go hand in hand. Even when results aren’t immediate, staying committed and doing your part with care eventually leads to meaningful outcomes. This mindset helped me stay focused and hopeful, especially during the more challenging moments of my journey.
Is there someone specific who had an important influence on your ULethbridge experience?
Yes — I'm especially grateful to Julia Wasilewski and Lee Burckes for their ongoing support and encouragement throughout my time at ULethbridge. Their trust in my ideas and their thoughtful feedback helped me grow both personally and professionally. Their presence was a steady part of my academic journey and supported me as I moved forward.
What are your plans for the future?
I hope to continue working on creative projects that connect art, technology and community. Whether through theatre, film or educational work, I’m interested in contributing to projects that create space for dialogue and imagination. I also look forward to teaching and supporting emerging artists as they begin their own creative paths.
What advice would you give to those who are about to begin their journey at ULethbridge?
Things don’t have to be perfect. Give yourself time to adjust and figure things out. The university has space for you to grow, but you have to give yourself permission to explore, make mistakes and learn in your own way.
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