I have always said that my time at McGill was one of the best times in my life. I joined McGill with the very pragmatic plan to perfect my English and hence increase my chances of success in my future career. Being a francophone, I wanted to try to get an education in English and in engineering on top of it. To say that the first two semesters were tough is to put it lightly. I very quickly learned that speaking English does not necessarily translate into being fluently bilingual. I persevered with encouragement from my parents, professors and fellow students. I am extremely proud to be a McGillian.
I had never stopped to fully think through the impact my five years at McGill – and my two engineering degrees with a minor in management – had on my early years as an adult. Why was it the best time of my life? It certainly taught me perseverance and teamwork, pushed me out of my comfort zone, opened my eyes to the world (with fellow students from Europe, Botswana, Kenya, Columbia, etc.), and helped me build relationships that will last a lifetime. I met my husband on day one of Statics class with Professor Broughton, and we have been together for 27 years. McGill opens doors to opportunities in Montreal and beyond.
For me, being a McGillian meant that I had to work harder and live up to the standards of this university, of its past graduates, of its current students, and of its future stars. I had to ensure that I embodied the integrity, the professionalism, and the quest for a better world that this institution represents – in my eyes and the eyes of so many others. It is for me a beacon of knowledge, culture, history, tradition and innovation. McGill is a treasure to Canada and to the world.
I will continue to work hard, to try to have a positive impact on my loved ones, my fellow citizens, my environment and perhaps in a small way contribute to a better world.
Thank you McGill for forging my early years as an adult and helping to set me on the right path.