Shining graduate - Antoine Gendron (BSc (Co-op) '21)
Antoine Gendron (BSc Co-op '21) graduates this spring with his Bachelor of Science general major with streams in biology, chemistry, and kinesiology. Through liberal education, Antoine grew into his role as a global citizen and developed trans-disciplinary approaches to critical thinking. At uLethbridge, Antoine was part of the Global Citizenship cohort, sat as a board member on the Oldman Watershed Council and founded the Earth Day Symposium, an event that continues four years later. He also participated in a sixteen-month co-op. Antoine hopes to work in the conservation science and ecology field before furthering his education.
What is your most memorable uLethbridge experience?
My most memorable experience would be creating the Earth Day Symposium and working with fantastic students and professors on the yearly event for four years.
What have you gained from the liberal education experience at uLethbridge?
I have grown in my role as a global citizen and developed my critical thinking skills through a variety of courses from different disciplines. Liberal Education at the U of L strengthened my perspective on the importance of trans-disciplinary approaches to problem-solving in the world. It has continued to show me the importance of communicating amongst one another and taking time to listen to different perspectives to come to better conclusions.
What is the most important lesson you learned during your time at uLethbridge?
From my personal experience, the most important lesson I learnt was to take initiative and create the experience you want to have for yourself. Ask the questions you have and find ways to find the answers with all the available resources on campus. Engage with your peers and your professors. Participate in co-op and volunteer opportunities. And don't forget to study!
Is there someone specific who had an important influence on your uLethbridge experience?
Dean of the School of Liberal Education Dr. Shelly Wismath and anthropology professor Dr. Jodie Asselin each played an important part in my uLethbridge experience through classes and project collaborations. Both are very easy people to talk with, and both care deeply about their students and what they teach.
What are your hopes/plans for the future?
At this moment in time, my hopes and plans are to work in the conservation science/ecology field for a few years to gain some hands-on experience before furthering my education and getting a master's degree.
What advice would you give to those who are about to begin their journey at uLethbridge?
Seek out opportunities available on campus and in the Lethbridge community. Find your passion and if there is not something tailored for it, create/seek/talk with professors about what you can do to make something happen.