News Archives

Growing up, I always felt like I was “in the middle.” Not the smartest, not the most athletic. Learning to see value in my quieter strengths changed how I perceive myself.

During our recent Multicultural Week, I was thinking about how special our school really is. For some of us it’s five minutes away from home, but for many, it means a completely new country, a new language, and even the start of a new lifestyle. Sometimes we forget how lucky we are to be somewhere that offers so many opportunities with such meaningful experiences.

I remember when I was first accepted as a prefect last year. As the new prefects and I talked together, we began sharing what made us most nervous about stepping into this role. Almost everyone gave the same answer: giving a prefect speech. I remember listening as others admitted their fears and slowly realizing that I felt exactly the same way. The thought of standing in front of the entire school felt overwhelming.

For those who don’t know me, my name is Émilie, and I am in Grade 11. Those who do know me, know my name and know me better know that I have type 1 diabetes. Today, I am not here to give you a lesson or for you to get to know me better; no, I am here to help you understand yourself better.  

Oscar Wilde said that if you know exactly what you want to be in life, you will become it; that is your punishment.

Before attending Stanstead College, I did not participate in many team sports. My whole life, I skied during the winter and sailed during the summer. During those years, I did make my school soccer team and played for one season, and then a couple of years later I played flag football for two consecutive seasons.