At McGill University, from 2012 to 2017, I embarked on a transformative journey within the Faculty of Education. Little did I know that these formative years would shape not only my professional trajectory but also instill within me a profound commitment to improving global education. As a student in the Faculty of Education, specializing in primary teaching, I was immersed in a rich tapestry of academic learning and practical experiences that laid the foundation for my future endeavors.
One of the most impactful aspects of my education at McGill was the comprehensive placement program. Through this program, I gained invaluable hands-on experience in the classroom, honing my teaching skills and learning to navigate the intricacies of educational practice. The thousands of hours spent teaching, both in traditional classrooms and diverse settings, provided me with a nuanced understanding of pedagogy and the multifaceted nature of the teaching profession.
Following my time at McGill, I embarked on a journey that took me across borders and into different educational contexts. In Ontario, I taught at two independent schools, specializing in math and science education. My experiences in these environments further solidified my passion for teaching and underscored the importance of innovative pedagogical approaches in fostering student learning.
My experiences at McGill equipped me with the resilience and adaptability necessary to navigate uncharted territory.”
A pivotal chapter in my journey unfolded in Barcelona, Spain, where I had the opportunity to teach at an international school. This experience broadened my perspective on education, exposing me to diverse cultures and teaching methodologies. It was during this time that I began to discern a common thread among educators worldwide – a shared desire to collaborate and innovate in the face of mounting challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and rapid technological advancements.
As I witnessed the struggles faced by educators globally, I was driven to seek solutions that would empower teachers and enhance student learning outcomes. It became evident to me that existing tools and strategies for collaboration were inadequate, prompting me to embark on a new path. Drawing upon the knowledge and skills acquired during my time at McGill, I made the bold decision to leave the traditional classroom setting and venture into the realm of educational technology.
My experiences at McGill equipped me with the resilience and adaptability necessary to navigate uncharted territory. Armed with a deep-seated commitment to improving education, I set out to create a collaboration platform for teachers called CoLab Education. This platform would serve as a digital hub where educators could connect, share resources, and collectively address the challenges facing the profession.
I am currently in the McGill Dobson Cup & Workshop program learning about entrepreneurship from experts. This experience has reminded me of the countless ways McGill positively impacts the community. Our cohort of entrepreneurs will go on to build meaningful businesses due to the many skills and teachings from this program. The ecosystem built has also been invaluable for me at this stage of my business growth.
In addition, my time at McGill also fostered a deep appreciation for Indigenous perspectives in education. I am committed to supporting initiatives that empower Indigenous teachers and students, and see that the McGill Faculty of Education also prioritizes this. The school has taken action and is a leader for Canada.
In essence, McGill University played a pivotal role in shaping my identity as an educator and a changemaker. It instilled within me a sense of purpose and a willingness to take risks in pursuit of a greater good. As I continue on my journey to revolutionize education, I remain grateful for the transformative experiences and enduring lessons that I gained at McGill.