Shining Student Erik Wright

An experienced culinary professional, Erik Wright wants to share his lived experiences and natural sense of curiosity with students in hopes of inspiring the next generation of culinary lovers.

Everything worth doing is going to be hard work.

Meet Erik: Creative. Direct. Problem solver.
Hometown: Lethbridge, Alta.
Program: Bachelor of Fine Arts/Bachelor of Education | Major: New Media

What are three unique things/facts about yourself?

1. I have a Journeyman and Red Seal in culinary and have worked in the food industry for over 20 years.
2. I play guitar and bass guitar and have played in bands for most of my life.
3. Me and my wife have been together for 12 years and have a beautiful 11 year old daughter.

What inspired you to become a teacher?

Both my mother and sister are teachers here in Lethbridge, and my wife is a learning commons facilitator. All three of them have played major roles in my journey to realize that working with students in an educational setting is something I want to pursue.

Tell us about any learning experiences out in the field and how they have impacted your education

Last semester, I completed my PS I in a grade two class, which solidified my belief that education is the right path for me. As a student teacher, I quickly realized how much responsibility comes with being seen as a teacher by the students. Building relationships with them has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my degree, and I'm excited for more field experiences to come.

What excites you most about becoming a teacher?

I know it sounds cliche, but I want to be able to make education desirable for students. Something they are excited to seek out.

How have your professors or instructors impacted your education? Are there any faculty members who have made a big impact on your time at ULethbridge?

My instructors have greatly impacted my education here at the U of L. In New Media, most of the classes are smaller and more personal, it becomes a very welcoming environment where there is a lot of time for feedback one-on-one with my instructors. The same can be said for The Department of Education. Every instructor I have had has been amazing from the department, and even though it has been a lot of work so far, they are always there to help. I would like to thank Dr. Charlotte Brenner, for nominating me for this recognition.

What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience so far?

In a Digital Video Production class, I made a four-minute-long short film that I wrote, directed, filmed and edited. It is a comedy, based in 1999, where three friends look to use MS-DOS to stop the global banking collapse during the Y2K scare. This was so much fun to make, and I think about it all the time, even if I'm the only one who thinks it's funny.

What are your hopes/plans for the future?

After completing my combined degree, I plan to work with the Lethbridge School District as a foods teacher. My goal is to start or join a food program where I can mentor students interested in participating in culinary competitions, such as Skills Canada while working together with all of the students on our common love for culinary.