Balancing his roles as a husband and father, and driven by a passion for learning and a commitment to making the world a better place, David Forestell has found inspiration in the classroom and beyond. From lively whiteboard debates with peers to the profound mentorship of his professors, David’s experience reflects the power of education to spark growth, connection, and purpose.
My professors, and they are now 'mine', inspire me to push beyond what I think I know, past what I think I am capable of doing, and into that rarified light of commitment.
Meet David | Energetic. Intense. Determined.
Program: Bachelor of Arts | Major: Economics and Political Science
Did you know what you wanted to study before you came to ULethbridge?
I entered ULethbridge in the agricultural studies program. I quickly realized my interest was not in the hard sciences but in the social sciences, so I changed majors and am now completing a double major in economics and political science.
What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience so far?
One day, during a break in a seminar course, I found myself trying to explain a concept that I was working through. This concept, a direct result of the course, was entirely new to me and wholly engaging. I ended up at the front of the room, creating diagrams on the whiteboard, and had seven or eight other students challenging me on my idea, as well as encouraging me to 'fill in the holes'. This pursuit of knowledge, new and unfamiliar, was fulfilling not only because I could see that I was 'more' than I was before but also because I was encouraged to share it with others. It was a moment of enlightenment.
How have your professors impacted your education?
As a mature student, there are times when I feel like I have more in common with the professors than I do with my student peers. As such, I feel very at ease in conversation with them. Moreover, I am always, excited and appreciative of the command professors hold in their respective disciplines.
I have yet to meet a political science professor who is not immediately engaging and demonstrates an enviable breadth of knowledge. My economics professors have such a ruthlessly practical view of the world that it has opened my eyes to new perspectives. Who knew math professors could be so much fun?! And finally, worthy of special mention, my current philosophy professor, trying to introduce this weary soul to ethics, displays a playful kindness seemingly unblemished by cynicism.
My professors, and they are now 'mine', inspire me to push beyond what I think I know, past what I think I am capable of doing, and into that rarified light of commitment. John Von Heyking, Yale Belanger, Stephanie Kerr, Stravroula Malla, Micheal Lanyi, Jeff Davidson, Duane Rockerbie, Kien Tran, Pascal Ghazalian, Donna Townley, and Ardis Anderson. Donna Townley helped me find my way to economics, and John Von Heyking brought me into political science and literally changed how I think. Stavroula Malla has shown me such unwavering kindness and support that it has altered my sense of self, and Ardis Anderson is helping me to be 'better.'
David is one of the most engaged students I've witnessed in seminar. His curiosity combines with an eagerness to speak freely and to respond to others in conversation, which is incredibly refreshing and serves as a model for other students. — Dr. John Von Heyking, Department of Political Science
Is there anyone else who had an important influence on your ULethbridge experience?
Lisa Marie Deroche, the administrative support for the economics and political science departments. A kind word and a lively chat every time I see her made my visits to that particular part of the university welcoming and comfortable.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I am a family man. I am married to a strong and dynamic wife who unconditionally supports my pursuit of higher education. I have a daughter that I love beyond measure, which keeps me playful and engaged. In the small amount of time outside of attending school, studies, and familial duties, I enjoy working with my hands (gardening, sculpture, furniture restoration and building) and am a keen runner (go ultra or go home!).
What are three awesome things about you?
I am not afraid of hard work. I am fiercely loyal. I can be engaged in conversation with just about anyone.
What are your hopes/plans for the future?
If I am to accomplish my goal of making this world just a little bit better for my daughter, I hope to be involved in policy creation (municipal, provincial, or federal), specifically targeting food security and distributive justice.
What advice would you like to give those about to begin their journey at ULethbridge?
Get involved with your peers. Create study groups and crash your ideas together. Talk to your professors. They have been where you are and love to get you where you want to be. Trust the process. Learning is not always easy or fun. At the end of it, I can almost guarantee that you will be left wanting more.
Quick Answers
Favourite class: Reason and Revelation, a political science seminar course with John Von Heyking
Favourite social activity at ULethbridge: Coffee with classmates
Favourite place to study: In my den at home or the study room behind SA6008
Photos submitted by David
About Shining Students
Shining Students engage inside and outside of the classroom. What makes a student shine may differ from person to person, but they all share a passion for learning. They may be top students, involved in an innovative project, participating in ground-breaking research, playing Pronghorn athletics, fighting for social issues or all of the above! When students find something they enjoy and combine it with what they are good at, they shine.
Each year, the Faculty of Arts & Science's faculty and staff nominate students who exemplify the ULethbridge student spirit. Congratulations David!