Q&A with Shining Graduate Mollie Riley

Finding my passion and following it was my most memorable ULethbridge experience.

Mollie Riley (BA '22) graduates this spring with Great Distinction for her Bachelor of Arts majoring in history. At ULethbridge, Mollie was able to participate in experiential learning that helped shape her experience by providing tremendous learning and growth opportunities.

Please tell us a bit about your experiential or work-integrated learning. What were your three biggest takeaways from participating?

In the summer of 2020, I completed an independent study under the supervision of Dr. Carol Williams. In the spring and fall of 2021, I completed an undergraduate honours thesis under the supervision of Dr. Carol Williams and second reader, Dr. Heather Stanley, where my research explored professional women's relationship to, and application of, Alberta's Sexual Sterilization Act between 1928 and 1972. These experiential research opportunities offered me new insights, helped improve my analytical skills, and deepened my work as a scholar.

My three greatest takeaways were as follows:

1.       Trust in yourself and your abilities. Throughout university, I struggled with self-doubt surrounding my academic skills. These research opportunities required me to trust myself, which ultimately improved my academic confidence.

2.       Constructive criticism is deeply valuable. I have learned so much from the ongoing feedback given to me by my professors. Allowing yourself to take feedback, without becoming defensive, is such an important means of improving academically.

3.       Seek out experiential learning opportunities. These opportunities allowed me to hone my academic skills and prepared me for graduate school in ways I don't think other courses could have. I have learned so much and formed meaningful relationships with my school community through my involvement in these learning opportunities.

What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience?

When I started at ULethbridge in 2017, I was enrolled in a different program. However, during my first year, I fell in love with history and began discovering my passion for scholarship. This experience prompted me to pursue a degree in history, and I am so glad I did! Finding my passion and following it was my most memorable ULethbridge experience.

Is there someone specific who had an important influence on your ULethbridge experience?

I completed my independent study, undergraduate honours thesis, and numerous courses with Dr. Carol Williams during my undergrad. Dr. Williams was the single greatest support I had in my academic journey, and I am immensely grateful for her insight, feedback, and unwavering belief in me.

What are your hopes/plans for the future?

In the near future, I plan to pursue a master's. I hope to continue learning, exploring, and growing as both a student and a person.

What advice would you give to those about to begin their journey at ULethbridge?

If you are interested in experiential or work-integrated programs, I recommend pursuing them! These opportunities offer tremendous learning and growth opportunities and enhance your academic cv. There are many opportunities for students, and I encourage people to seek them out.

Congratulations, Mollie!