We had the absolute pleasure to meet Bryanna and hear about her academic goals, volunteer experiences, and big dreams. Bryanna, is gorgeous, genuine, and driven Golden Hawk. She has offered so much to the Laurier community and is loved by many.
Program: Honours Psychology with Research SpecializationYear: 4Hometown: London, Ontario
How did you end up choosing Laurier?
I kind of applied on a whim. I really wanted to go to the University of Toronto or Queen’s University but I applied to Laurier because my older brother and my parents went to school here. When we were doing the big tour, I had a feeling that was more than anything rational and it just felt right.
What are you involved in?
I started out on the varsity cheerleading team as well as being president of Bricker House Council. In my first year, I needed some help in one of my Psychology classes so I went to an SOS (Students Offering Support) session and it really helped me. When I found out that all the money donated went towards building educational projects, I knew I wanted to be part of making that happen. The next year I applied to be a tutor for SOS and I absolutely loved it. I applied for president right from being a tutor and I have held that position for two years! It is a club out of SBE but I have been working towards expanding into science and connecting with professors.
As a science student, what’s it like being the president of an SBE club?
It’s nice because it gives me a different perspective; business and science students think differently so it’s an advantage!
What are your inspirations in life?
People that continue to have passion for something that other people say they can’t do. I think people should go full force with their dreams! My mom also inspires me. She was told that she didn’t have what it takes to become a lawyer so she went into social work. Instead of accepting this, she wrote her LSAT and applied for law school. She got in, finished at the top of her class, and now runs her own law firm. She is one of the most successful female lawyers in southwestern Ontario. She is a rock star! She has definitely taught me how to work hard, and to go for what I want.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
I come from a medical and science family, so I have always been surrounded with that. I have done a few mission trips teaching English in the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Costa Rica. While I was there I noticed that their health standards weren’t where they needed to be; not only did people not understand how to take care of themselves but the surgeries were not up to the standard we have here in North America. I have been inspired to be dedicated to science, and this summer I am writing my MCAT.
In ten years I hope to a practicing physician, spending the majority of my time working in clinics in need. I hope to be practicing and giving medical advice to others.
What do you want to be remembered for?
For being a hard working person that is also encouraging of others, and for going after things I love and looking after my friends and family.
What makes you smile?
I love seeing people be passionate about what they’re involved in. When I’m walking through the concourse and see others really excited about something that they are doing, I get excited for them. I also have the best four roommates that I could ever ask for, and they make me smile everyday. They always know exactly what is going on in my life and make sure to see how my day was. In the end, they are the most genuine people I know.
What is your favourite getting ready song?
Well, anything Beyoncé. Or on the Songza “Wake Up Happy” playlist!
What is your advice for fellow Golden Hawks?
Now that I am graduating, I have realized that you’re going to get out what you put in. If you are thinking about something – go for it! You lose any chance that you don’t take! Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something! I would also say don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Plan for other things and diversify yourself as a person!
“Life is not a dress rehearsal” Shout out to my mom for that quote!
Thank you Bryanna for sharing a little part of your world with us. You are truly destined for amazing things and we felt inspired after meeting with you!