May has been a fantastic month for me, for many reasons. I have been making preparations for my graduation, have been accepted to the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, and now have a chance to say thank you.
When I first applied to university, I only applied to Western. I knew it was the only school I really wanted to go to. I was accepted into three programs: Nursing, Science and Kinesiology. To the surprise of my friends and family, I deviated from the traditional paths for medical ambitions and chose the degree I thought would not only prepare me better, but would allow me to have fun (sports for marks) and look at health a different way.
I was fortunate enough to receive a faculty entrance scholarship that became one of the foundations of my success, allowing me to focus on school and even helping me through hard financial times when my father was out of work. I met so many life-changing teachers and enthusiastic students that made my four years an adventure in learning and teamwork without the stress of excessive competition found elsewhere.
For this alone, I would choose Kinesiology again if I ever had to do it all over.
As I briefly mentioned, I simply wanted to take the opportunity to thank you. The school has given me so many opportunities and firm support as I pursued my ambitions. In a phrase, I have had the time of my life. I have tried to give back to the school through my four years, often working to promote the school at Western’s many events. Now that I have experienced how Western has fulfilled my dreams, and how much I owe to Kinesiology, I wish even more I will be able to contribute. If ever you have need of someone to promote Kinesiology as a road to professionalism in all of its forms, or simply to show how much fun the program can be, I will always be just a couple doors down.
Western has become as much of a home as a school can be and, like the best of homes, it is where the heart lives.
Ethan Cassidy