While she’s only 18 years old, a Collingwood student has received a leg up from some retirees.
For this week’s edition of People of Collingwood we spoke with Kamryn Lalonde, 18, student and scholarship recipient.
Q: Where did you grow up?
A: I’ve lived in Collingwood my whole life.
I went to Admiral Collingwood and Collingwood Collegiate Institute.
I’m in my second year at Brock University studying child and youth studies – concurrent education. My stream is primary/junior.
Q: When did you first know you wanted to become a teacher?
A: I’ve always loved working with kids. I did babysitting and coaching.
I did my Grade 12 co-op at Connaught Public School teaching Grade 2 and that was life-changing for me. It solidified my decision to go to school for teaching.
I want to work with children and make learning exciting. They’re malleable, so you can shape the way they interact with others and view themselves.
I want to be the caring adult that some kids really need.
Q: You are a recent recipient of a $3,000 Municipal Retirees Organization Ontario scholarship. What made you want to apply?
A: My aunt reached out and said she thought it was an awesome opportunity. I get hesitant applying for these things, but my mom said, why not? What’s the worst that can happen?
Q: How did you feel when you found out you were one of the recipients?
A: It was unbelievable. I really didn’t think I had a chance.
The cost of living is definitely eye-opening. I will be using this for school, paying rent and groceries.
Q: What are your hobbies?
A: I’m coaching with the Brock Niagara Aquatics right now. I coach a group of seven or eight-year-olds. I also coach masters swimmers.
I coached with Georgian Bay Squall for a couple of summers.
I’ve swam my whole life – I’m a masters swimmer and swam varsity last year. This year, I decided to take a step back and I’m just swimming for fun.
I hang out with my friends. I read. I have lots of homework. (laughs)
Q: Is there anything else you want people in Collingwood to know about you?
A: I always encourage children to try out for new things in sports. I grew up swimming with the Collingwood Clippers and it was life-changing for me. I met life-long friends. I learned discipline and time management.
Don’t be afraid to try new things and get out there.
For our feature People of Collingwood, we speak with interesting people who are either from or are contributing to the Collingwood community in some way, letting them tell their own stories in their own words. This feature runs on CollingwoodToday every weekend. If you’d like to nominate or suggest someone to be featured in People of Collingwood, email [email protected].
