Sofia

Rizzo

Honours Bachelor of Arts in Sociology & Women's Studies
Thunder Bay, ON

My name is Sofia Rizzo and I am a recent graduate from Lakehead University’s Undergraduate Sociology and Women’s Studies programs. I was born and raised in Thunder Bay Ontario, and being able to stay in my community to complete my education was always something I longed to do. I also recognize Lakehead University as having outstanding student-faculty relationships and a small atmosphere that allows for student growth and success. These are the characteristics that made me love the school.

I recall feeling frustrated and overwhelmed in my first year, as many students often are. Much of my inspiration came from departments on the second floor of the Ryan Building. Coincidently, this is also where I received some of the greatest academic advice. After much frustration about my major and academic direction, a professor said, so simply and eloquently that I can hardly do it justice:

“Do what you love, because what you love is usually also what you’re good at. If you do what you love everything else will fall into place and nothing else will matter.”

So began my education in Sociology and Women’s Studies and I never looked back. 

Truly immersing yourself in your education because you thoroughly enjoy it is rewarding in itself. My field of research, gendered bodies in sport, allows me to continue to be excited and inspired by my studies. This past year I worked with a few other peers to pioneer the Women and Gender Studies Student Association (WGSSA). This was a meaningful project for me, along with other Women’s Studies students. This exceptional program now has a group of its own that it can be proud of; one that welcomes all other students and programs, something that makes WGSSA stand separate from other groups at Lakehead University. This allows for students to easily get involved with student life. Being a part of a greater group of like-minded students really initiates friendships and other projects – it helps students find out more about themselves.

Lakehead’s innovative programs, accomplished and caring facultyand staff have helped me, along with many other students, down the road to success; now it is up to us to act on that. The small atmosphere really does allow for students to grow in their education, and professors truly care for their students. All my professors aided in my success in my undergraduate degree. Now, I cannot wait to begin my Masters in Sociology at Lakehead University in September 2015.