Age: 19
Program: Major in Psychology with a double minor in women’s studies and health sciences
Hometown: Mississauga/Oakville
Relationship Status: LOOOOOOL.
Tell me about yourself and all the things you do at Western:
I consider myself to be a very upbeat, empathetic and enthusiastic person. I love spending time with my friends and family, shopping (especially for makeup), dancing on the top floor of Frog (where the good music is) and watching Greys’ Anatomy for hours on end.
I’ve always been the type of person who likes to be busy, so as a result I’m involved in a lot of things on and off Western’s campus. Currently, I am the Vice President of Events for BSA, a member of Western’s Psychology Association and in the Alpha Phi (theta eta chapter).
What is the best thing you have done at Western?
It’s only my second year at Western but I already feel very connected to so many things on campus. The best thing I’ve done here would be joining BSA. Black Students’ Association was the very first club that I joined when I came to UWO last year, and it’s the place where I’ve made all of my closets friends. It’s so important to have a safe space in university.
Why did you pursue your major?
Okay, so my entire degree seems all over the place because it’s comprised of three different faculties: health science, social science and humanities, but trust me, it isn’t as complicated as it seems. The reason why I’m involved in these three faculties is simple: I. love. people. Ever since I was little I have always been so invested in the well-being of others and I have always had a need to empower and support other people. When I came to Western and I started taking women’s studies courses and health science, I fell in love with everything I learned about health and wellness (especially the mental health of young women). I knew I wanted to find a way to combine this into my psych major. I’ve learned about so many social and personal determinants of health that create these intersections that ultimately influence a person’s overall health and wellness.
What’s your favorite food?
Burritos. Not just any burrito, but the Burrito Boyz burritos. I have to confess, in December, I ate Burrito Boyz every single day for a week and I still have no regrets (not even a single pound). Here’s my recipe for a perfect burrito: chicken, extra guac, two lines of XX hot sauce, beans, rice, corn and salsa. Trust me. It’s the best thing you’ll ever eat.
Who is your role model?
Oprah. That woman made $70 million dollars in one night.
What is your favorite song right now?
In this very moment, it’s a toss-up between ‘Formation’ by Beyonce and ‘Waves’ by Kanye West. It really depends on what type of mood I’m in, but it’s usually one of those two songs that I’m playing.
Do you have any mottos that you live by?
I actually have two mottos, both of which are courtesy of my parents. The first is something my mom says to me every single day: “Make your own happiness.” While I may not have complete control over every single thing that happens in my life, I have complete autonomy over how I choose to react to adversity and success. I want to lead a life that is fulfilling and filled with love and happiness.
The second motto I live by is something my dad always says to me: “Let it come and let it go.” My dad says this to me whenever I am having a difficult time in school or with any situation. Negative thoughts, sadness and frustration are all temporary states. The trick is to not fight against them but ride the wave of difficulty until it passes (because it always does).
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Career wise… couldn’t tell ya. However, whatever I end up doing, I want to be happy and I want to be surrounded by people who uplift and support me every single day.
Have you had any classes/ professors at Western that made an impact on you?
YES!!! The first class that I highly recommend would be Controversies of Sociology with Professor Allahar. It’s a very challenging class, but it was one of the few classes I’ve had at Western that I was always excited to go to. I learned so much because of how engaging he was in his lectures, and the class really taught me to think of the world in new ways.
The second class would definitely have to be my Women’s Studies 1000 course with Professor Miranda Green-Barteet. She was one of the nicest profs I’ve ever had and also very engaging. I loved that she encouraged discussions in her class.
Finally, Gillian Mandich who teachers the health science 1000 courses in the summer. She’s the reason why I decided to also minor in health science. She’s great at connecting with students.
Do have any guilty pleasures?
Right now, it’s strawberry Poptarts and Nesquik cereal.
What’s your favorite thing to do in your spare time?
I could lie and say going to the gym, but really, I like watching YouTube makeup tutorials in bed.
What are you watching on Netflix right now/what’s your favorite show?
The better question would be: what AREN’T you watching on Netflix right now? Currently, I’m re-watching the Boondocks and A Different World, on season 6 of Grey’s Anatomy, I just started a new T.V. show called Jane the Virgin (which is hilarious and I highly recommend) and I’m debating between starting House of Cards or the Good Wife.