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Kaylyn MacDonald. Photo Supplied

Kaylyn MacDonald started her bachelor of science in kinesiology during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when all classes were online. Her fascination with studying the human body and the support of good friends helped her get through the uncertainty and challenge of that time, and today, as she graduates, she looks forward to a research assistant position with a lab at the Â鶹ÊÓƵ, then an eventual move back to her home in British Columbia to work in health promotion.

We caught up with her to find out more about her time at the Â鶹ÊÓƵ.

What drew you to this area of study?

I have always been fascinated by the human body and kinesiology allowed me to further explore my interests in human anatomy while also unlocking new interests, like adapted physical activity, health promotion, and chronic diseases and exercise. 

How did you stay motivated and did anyone encourage you to keep going when things got tough?

There were times when it was very hard to stay motivated, especially when classes were online during COVID-19 and there was a lot of uncertainty. But I have been surrounded by the most amazing support system throughout my degree who have truly been integral to my success. I have met some of my best friends throughout my time at the Â鶹ÊÓƵ and having them by my side throughout my degree has been so amazing. My academic advisor Darcie has also been a pivotal person throughout my degree and I am forever grateful for her support and always being there to listen and talk with along the way!

What were your go-to spots on campus? Why?

I absolutely loved studying in the John Scott Library when it was open because of the natural light, but once it closed I enjoyed going to the Sperber Health Science library to study alone or with friends. Another great space is the fourth floor of the education building, especially when studying with friends.

Did you participate in any extracurricular activities?

I spent two years in the Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation Student Society as an academic representative and then the vice-president, internal. My time there taught me a lot about how to work with a large group of people and led me to meet some of my best friends, while also hosting events for student mental health and advocating for students. I have also spent the last two years as a volunteer research assistant with the  with Dr. Taniya Nagpal. I have had the opportunity to lead my own research project as well as help with other research projects in the lab that have allowed me to explore qualitative research methods. I plan to take the skills I have learned from these opportunities into my future work experience, especially my work on stigma and weight bias with the LEApPpS lab. 

What advice would you give to a student thinking of entering this program?

Keep an open mind! There really is so much that this faculty has to offer in terms of learning opportunities, volunteer opportunities, research opportunities and so much more. When I started my degree I went in with one idea of what I wanted to do, and am leaving with a completely different plan for my future. Another thing is to do your degree whatever way works best for you! I took five years to do my degree and I have no regrets whatsoever. I’ve taken anywhere from three to five courses a semester and took my time to figure out what worked best for me. This allowed me to make the most of my degree and really enjoy my time at the Â鶹ÊÓƵ.