Shining Student Brett Leclaire

While Brett Leclaire initially chose the University of Lethbridge because it was his hometown university, he has since fallen in love with the faculty and classes available.

Post-secondary is an immense undertaking, and at the beginning, it's going to be hectic getting all the correct forms, classes, and planning, let alone the school work done, but it will come in time. And when it does, remember that this is an incredible time in our lives, so have fun and make connections.

Meet Brett | Adventurous. Curious. Kind.
Program: Bachelor of Arts | Major: Anthropology

What has been your most memorable ULethbridge experience so far?

One of my most memorable moments at the University of Lethbridge was in an anthropology class focused on South East Asia. Professor Ferzacca arrived at the first class with a metal gong and walked around the room chanting and ringing the gong to cleanse the space. This set such a fantastic start to the class and set the standard for future classes.

What is the most important lesson you have learned so far at ULethbridge?

University is not a race—a four-year degree is the minimum time required to complete it, not the normal. From someone who felt like I was taking too long to get through my degree, it was nice to meet people who reminded me that school is a process affected by many other aspects of life. I have worked and lived on my own throughout university and had to fit social time between all that. Do not race through your experience. Learn in-depth about the world and people around—no need to rush that.

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

Professor Ferzacca has massively influenced my ULethbridge experience. I have had the privilege of taking two classes with him, and both have helped shape my love of anthropology—times like the cleansing at the start of the Anthropology of South East Asia class. Or, our conversations after class or his wild socks and rocker attitude have made school such a more interesting and interactive experience and has deepened my learning. He's an amazing and inspiring individual to learn from, and he has helped define my University career.

Is there anything you wish you knew in your first semester that you know now?

How to properly study! Coming out of high school right into university is such a transition, and I had no clue how to take notes and review content. Having established a system that works for me, I highly recommend new students take some time to find what works for them.

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

Post-secondary is an immense undertaking, and at the beginning, it's going to be hectic getting all the correct forms, classes, and planning, let alone the school work done, but it will come in time. And when it does, remember that this is an incredible time in our lives, so have fun and make connections.

Favourite class: Anthropology of Popular Culture

Favourite social activity at ULethbridge: Club activities

Favourite place to study: Galileo Lounge