Shining Student Marc Tardif

A dedicated mycologist and bowyer, Marc is channeling his curiosity and passion for the natural world into his University of Lethbridge experience, bringing enthusiasm to both his personal pursuits and his teaching.

The pursuit of a meaningful life led me to a re-evaluation of my effect on my community and the future. Seeing the impact that my wife was having in her classroom, and reflecting on my sordid experiences in school, led me to want to be a positive influence in the education world. In this new career, I hope to not lose sight of this greater goal and to always be striving to be a better influence.

"As a mature student, Marc brings a unique perspective informed by his life experiences prior to returning to post-secondary," says Dr. Sandy Bakos, assistant professor in the Faculty of Education. "He arrives in class with enthusiasm and is always willing to contribute an idea or help out a classmate. Though the quality of his engagement and work has been impressive, it's his caring nature and ability to encourage others that really make him shine."

Meet Marc: Enthusiastic. Persistent. Talkative.
Hometown: Red Lake, Ont.
Program: Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Education
Major: Chemistry/Science Education

Why did you choose to pursue Education at the University of Lethbridge?

I wanted to enter the field as a well-prepared educator with meaningful classroom experience, and I knew ULethbridge could give me that advantage.

What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience so far?

Though I cannot pinpoint one particular experience at ULethbridge, I can say that my interactions with my peers, professors and newfound friends are memories that will certainly last. I am not yet fully through my program and I am already looking back on this time of my life with great fondness.

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?

The instructors in the Faculty of Education at ULethbridge are amazing and seem to all have a particular strength that has helped guide my time here. From Dr. Chris Mattatall’s sheer depth of knowledge in educational psychology, to Dr. Charlotte Brenner’s examples of seemingly endless kindness and compassion in the classroom, to Dr. Sandy Bakos’ displays of teaching excellence, providing lived examples in the practical application of our learning. I would also love to publicly acknowledge Beth Cormier’s tireless commitment to student's success, and continued patience with my loud cackling in the Curriculum Lab.

What piece of advice would you give to future Faculty of Education students?

Don't panic; But on a serious note, we have no idea what the upper limits on self-improvement are, see if you can find them. Keep trying, working hard and reflecting on how you could be better while treating yourself kindly.

What excites you most about becoming a teacher?

I am most excited for the opportunities that I do not yet know exist. I would have never guessed that this would be my life, and every day I am thankful for it and excited as to what might be next.