Janelle Benallick

Honours Bachelor of Arts & Science (Environmental Sustainability)
Fergus, ON
What drew me specifically to Lakehead's Orillia campus was the development of the Environmental Sustainability Program and how the program was not one sided; it incorporated sciences and humanities. My favourite classes so far have been Entomology, Biotechnology, and Canadian Forest Plant Species. These are definitely classes that I would have never dreamed of taking, but am certainly glad I did. Although all these classes required a lot of reviewing and studying, the professors were always there to support and assist me along the way. They even came up with funny sayings, acronyms, or ways to remember the information, such as "you can tell which trees are black cherry because the bark looks like burnt cornflakes."
Not only have I enjoyed the fact that the campus itself is small, but I've also really enjoyed that my program is very small. In addition to having been able to get to know my professors personally, I've also been able to build strong relationships with my classmates; making it easier to do group work since the foundation has already been built.
The combination of the classes I've taken and the people I've met have made my education much more enjoyable and I think I'm walking out with some great friends as well as a broad, encompassing education.
Jared Wallace

Honours Bachelor of Music
Thunder Bay, ON
I chose to pursue music in University, as music has always been a huge part of my life. After doing weeks of research on prospective universities, I realized the right one was right under my nose all along. Lakehead offers a very friendly and welcoming music program with quality and incredibly dedicated instructors. Small class sizes in music allow you to have one-on-one interactions with your professors. Every single instructor is willing to help and push you to succeed in whatever way possible for you.
As a graduating music student, I have had many wonderful experiences studying at Lakehead, from playing in the many ensembles, performing my final recital, and especially the regular socials between the music students and faculty. One of my highlights would be playing section trumpet with the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra in “Carmina Burana” with my colleagues singing in the choir behind me. The music program is a close and tight knit family, with everybody knowing everybody, and often spending time outside of school together. If you are looking for a place to grow and prosper, Lakehead is the place to be. I will miss Lakehead, and have never once regretted my decision to attend there.
Jason Bruce

Bachelor of Education (Consecutive)
Toronto, ON
Initially, I chose Lakehead because it was one of the few universities that offered Native Studies as a teachable. My experience at Lakehead University has been unbelievable; the personal and professional growth I experienced as well as the number of doors that have opened for me along the way have been priceless. I was assisted every step of the way, no matter how many questions and concerns I had. Not only was my time at Lakehead University great, but I was also connected with a Faculty of Education alumnus member who runs a school abroad. This has enabled me to secure a teaching position working in Bangkok, Thailand at Crescent International School. Undoubtedly, knowledgeable and friendly staff members, who were always eager to help, positively impacted me on a daily basis. The Faculty of Education most definitely fosters a positive environment that is conducive to learning.
Jatin Sharma

Jay Bragnan

Honours Bachelor of Arts & Science
Ajax
I chose to transfer to Lakehead because it is a small campus with a personal feel. My professor took the time to look over my transcript and recommended courses that I should take to work towards completing my degree. The faculty and staff are very approachable at Lakehead.
With regards to student life, we have a close-knit student community where it is easy to meet lots of other students. There’s a family feel to Lakehead. I am on the LUSU (Student union) board of directors and involved in intramural sports. This allows me to get involved in many committees, side projects and campaigns, as well as meet people. It is important to me to get involved to keep a balanced life.
Lakehead gives you many opportunities to improve your networking/social skills, critical thinking and analytical thinking skills.
Jayal Chung

"I chose Lakehead University because it's close to home, and it was the perfect place for me to continue to develop my skills and knowledge and meet great people. Anthropology is a very diverse, broad field and the small classroom sizes are advantageous for in-depth discussion and presentations. I love that anthropology is a big mix of disciplines! Anthropology is the study of humankind in the context of time and culture, and so much more.
Outside of class, I occasionally contribute to the student newspaper, the Argus, and I am looking forward to being even more involved with Orientation this year, as a student ambassador! Within the city, I enjoy good company, biking and walking on the trails, swimming at Hazelwood Lake, seeing wildlife at Mission Marsh, going to see the occasional bands at Kilroys and the Apollo, and checking out new art at Definitely Superior Artist Run Centre.
My advice to future students is to be involved with the whole process of applying to university, making choices and taking things into your own hands, and this way it will make the experience even more personal!"
Jean-Paul De Roover

Jeff Luo

Bachelor of Engineering (Software) with Technologist Diploma and Co-operative Education, Honours Distinction
Thunder Bay, ON
"I chose Lakehead because of the atmosphere, and the fact that the Engineering programs are regulated by the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board, which means there is really no major difference from one institution to another. Lakehead offers the right atmosphere for me, and the smaller class sizes allow me to get to communicate and interact with professors more frequently. In fact, Lakehead's professors always have their doors open for you, and they never ask you to speak to the TA before you go approach them with your questions. This individualized attention helps foster and train the best minds in the world.
Lakehead University offers plenty of opportunity to excel. You can become involved in research right in your first year. I have even had the opportunity to write a research paper with my supervising professor and have it published in an international journal! I have also had the opportunity to complete a 16 month co-op with IBM in Markham, ON. By earning a technologist diploma after completion of your second year, Lakehead students shine when being screened for co-op interviews. The experience I have gained while on co-op at IBM was life altering, particularly having a profound impact on my views of the inner workings of the industry and the lifestyle of a professional.
There is something for everyone to be involved in here at Lakehead and it offers the opportunity to do so. Every bit of Lakehead is a great place to hang out, there is always a friend around the corner and it is never boring. When it is time to relax, I like to hang out in the Study coffeehouse with old and new friends alike."
Jen Kruse

Jenna Piechota


