As we prepare for the upcoming Fall Convocation, we are pleased to highlight our valedictorians who will
be speaking to their respective classes during their ceremonies.
Today, we feature Koralie Beaudoin — graduate of the School of Hospitality and Tourism’s Esthetician program,
What is your favourite memory from your time at Algonquin College?
I have a lot of dear memories from my time at the College, but my favorite one is of the friendships I built and developed with my now four best friends. If not for this program, I would not have met these four wonderful women. It was uplifting to find this group of individuals who loved the program as much as I did. We supported each other in our studies and shared many activities in and outside of the program. This made my experience at Algonquin College that much better.
How did COVID-19 impact your life and/or studies during your time as a student?
I think I speak for everyone when I say that COVID-19 was a challenge for everyone at Algonquin College. During our first two semesters we had our labs in-person, while wearing full PPE to protect each other — not the best learning situation. Our industry is about caring for others and being able to treat and touch others. That was very difficult to do at times when we had to keep masks on for facials and all other treatments. Our theory classes were all over Zoom, but our professors did their absolute best to ensure our learning outcomes were met. It definitely impacted our first two terms. But for our last term, we got lucky and everything was in-person and we got to experience some form of normalcy before leaving Algonquin College. It was difficult at times but we made the best of it.
What made your experience at Algonquin College authentic?
What made my experience at Algonquin College authentic were the dynamics shared between myself, the other students and the professors. The students in the labs were all nice individuals, which definitely made the learning process easier to go through as we all really became good friends throughout the semester. It was evident that everyone wanted the best for everyone and the teachers only wanted all of us to succeed. The teachers were very supportive and really wanted us to succeed as professionals out in the industry.
Did a professor or facilitator have an extraordinarily positive impact on your studies, or even your life?
All my teachers had a positive impact on my studies. During the last two terms, in labs and also theory courses I had the opportunity to be taught by Professor Christina Hunter — Christina really is the teacher that grew my love for esthetics, specifically skincare. She let us have control over our learnings and the treatments we provided to our clients and classmates. Christina was very honest with us and she let us really be creative and did the most to achieve our learning outcomes, I was very lucky to have her as a teacher.
What does being named Valedictorian mean to you?
For me, being Valedictorian is truly an honour. It confirms that my hard work paid off during my studies, and that I am on the right path when it comes to my career. I am the type of student that needs to love what I am learning to be invested in my studies. And this was definitely confirmed during my time in the esthetics program as I truly enjoyed all the classes.
What advice do you have for your fellow graduates?
My advice would be to never stop learning and to not be afraid to take risks. Taking risks is what often makes a successful career. Staying in your comfort zone will only hold you back from what could be something so rewarding not only for your personal life but also for your career path. My advice would also be to stay in touch with each other. Esthetics is an ever evolving industry and we can learn so much from each other. Definitely keep in touch!
What advice do you have for future students?
My advice for future students is to work hard, but also, to enjoy your time as a student at the College. Algonquin College has so much to offer. My advice is to make the connections from the start with your teachers. They are there to look out for you and they do have your best interest at heart. Be open with them, ask them for help when you need it and I promise that this will help you develop your abilities to become the most productive and successful professional that you can be for your industry.
More information about the Algonquin College Fall 2022 Convocation ceremonies can be found here.
and Kerry Potts started their new roles at Algonquin College and hit the ground running, quickly becoming part of the College community, hosting events and being interviewed by local media.
