I have a neat story to tell.
My journey began in 1979 when I was in in my final year at Dawson College. I knew that I wanted to get into McGill's Physical Education program to become a teacher. I had heard about a professor there, Dr. John Chomay. I met him, and he was amazing. I felt I belonged at McGill.
After being accepted into the BEd program in 1980, I had the most amazing three years of my education. I made special friends, worked part time at the Currie Sports Complex and held several of the key recreational coordinator positions. At the same time, McGill had Jostens grad rings on campus and I became the salesman (it was great extra income!).
It was now 1983 and I was graduating. Thanks to my stages, I knew I wanted to coordinate or manage rather than teach. Just before graduating, I proposed the idea to the Director of Athletics, Robert Dubeau, that he keep me on as a casual employee, and he accepted my offer. I became the daytime squash court monitor.
As the year progressed, the tasks and paychecks progressed. I was responsible for ticket making (varsity events), controlling our dozen vending machines, hiring part-time staff, and coordinating the new "total body workout" program, and I became head of student security for varsity events. I was making a good living and was loving the variety of positions.
I knew then that no matter what, I needed to stay at McGill Athletics and Recreation.
In 1984, the University required areas to release some of their casual employees or hire them full-time. After a discussion with the Director, I was offered a full-time position at lower pay. That same week, I was offered a high-paying ring salesman position for all high schools in the entire province of Quebec. After serious consideration, I realized McGill had – and would always have – my heart.
Today, in 2020, after 36 years of service at Athletics and Recreation, I am the Assistant Facilities Manager responsible for special events, several full-time staff, revenue generation and payroll amongst several other duties. I love my job, and I am Made by McGill.