In every role I’ve embraced during Fall Orientation—from being an incoming student, to a ConEd Orientation Leader “Teach,” Head Teach, and now, Orientation Roundtable Coordinator, one undeniable truth prevails—there’s a transformative magic to Fall Orientation that brings forth one’s finest self.
After a demanding month of May where I balanced a full-time job with a rigorous student teaching placement, I returned to Kingston to face an unwelcome task, deep cleaning my bedroom.
Three years at Queen’s University had turned my space into a cluttered mosaic of memories, filled with dusty textbooks, crumpled uniforms, and overflowing stationery.
As I undertook the ritualistic purge that had become a tool of procrastination, I unearthed more than just physical remnants. The process unlocked a vault of memories and a profound appreciation for my time here at Queen’s.
It was on this sweltering Saturday in June that I stumbled upon a well-worn brown leather journal from my first year. Its frayed edges spoke of frequent use and care. Opening it, I was instantly transported to the 17-year-old who had once penned its pages—vibrant yet anxious, searching for her place.
Among doodles, dreams, and fragmented poems, one entry titled “What I Want Out of 2022” stood out. Beneath it was a single, earnest bullet point: “Become a Teach.” Sitting there, overwhelmed by emotion, I realized how far I’ve come. This simple, first-year wish illuminated the incredible journey and fulfillment I have found through my involvement in Queen’s Fall Orientation.
I vividly recall the trek I made from Brant House residence to West Campus on my second day at university. Clad in a baggy, oversized bright green T-shirt, chatting nervously with my mum on the phone, I was coaxed into attending ConEd Orientation. I wish I could have silenced my doubts that day.
Entering ConEd Orientation was an exhilarating experience. It was a vibrant whirlwind of tutus, tams, cheers, the Con-Ed Cup, pulsating music, and even louder personalities. From those early moments, it was clear I was surrounded by peers who weren’t just dedicated but truly inspiring.
Each person I met was a beacon of enthusiasm, kindness, and unwavering . This dynamic community became my second family, offering a sanctuary where every challenge was met with collective resilience and every success was celebrated with joy. It was this nurturing environment that motivated me to wish for, and eventually take on the role of ConEd Orientation Leader, or “Teach.”
The initial months of my university experience were tumultuous, marked by a deep emotional struggle as I adjusted to the significant life change. Becoming a Teach brought me solace and connection, as the bonds formed during those early days of orientation planning proved to be enduring and genuine.
The late nights, shared laughter, and overwhelming “ConEd Love” I experienced with the 2022 Teaches seamlessly transitioned into my 2023 Teach Exec team—Team inSSuRMountAABle, transforming a sense of community into friendships unlike any I’d known before.
As Head Teach, watching the transformation of 16 incoming students, 67 devoted Teaches and 300 first-year Con-Eddies was a treasured gift. Their growth and enthusiasm were the very heartbeat of ConEd Orientation 2023, and their journeys left an indelible mark on me.
At its heart, Queen’s Fall Orientation is a tapestry of diverse individuals woven together by a shared sense of purpose and connection. This sense of community is not merely a byproduct, but the very essence of what makes Fall Orientation so transformative.
Orientation is more than a series of activities—it’s a manifestation of a collective dedication to excellence and learning. The roles I undertook as Head Teach demanded not only hard work but also a deep-seated ion for creating meaningful experiences. The commitment to delivering exceptional Orientation programs drove me to push my limits, to innovate, and to strive for excellence in every detail.
The experience was a continual cycle of learning and growth. I was immersed in an environment where excellence was the norm, not the exception, and continue to be surrounded by team who inspire this meticulous work. The intricate planning, the precision required in managing budgets and logistics, and the creativity needed to design engaging activities have all contributed to rich educational, social, and academic orientation programming.
The orientation environment nurtured my own ion for education and leadership, that demonstrating dedication to one’s work can transform routine tasks into extraordinary accomplishments. The commitment to excellence instilled during Fall Orientation has left an indelible mark on my approach to both academic and professional endeavours.
The personal growth I’ve experienced through my path to becoming Orientation Roundtable (ORT) Coordinator stands as the most profound facet of my transformative journey, and a testament to the program’s impact on personal development. The myriad of challenges I faced provided invaluable opportunities to stretch my capabilities and broaden my perspectives.
However, the most significant personal growth has not stemmed from the logistical or operational tasks but from guiding others. Leading Orientation Leaders, Executives, and incoming students to discover and embrace their potential has been the true heart of my experience. Each role I undertook taught me invaluable lessons in leadership, resilience, and empathy.
As ORT Coordinator, my close relationship with 1,500 Orientation Executives and Leaders has been both a deeply gratifying and challenging responsibility. This role has taught me the importance of patience, adaptability, and understanding, while also offering me the incredible privilege of witnessing their progress and achievements.
With every meeting, every panicked phone call or text message and every moment spent laughing and crying with Orientation Executives, I’ve experienced the most beautiful journey of friendship and leadership. These connections and shared experiences have enriched my life beyond measure, making every challenge and triumph a cherished part of this remarkable adventure.
Somewhere between painting coveralls, building events from scratch, operating a 10 foot U-Haul, liaising with University istration and stakeholders, and managing a budget of $630,000, I’ve found peers who inspire me, a community that uplifts me, and a home that continually opens new doors to personal growth and leadership development.
As I reflect on my journey, it becomes clear Queen’s Fall Orientation has been a crucible for personal and professional growth. It has provided a framework for understanding the true essence of community, the importance of ion in pursuing excellence, and the profound impact of personal development. The experience has taught me true fulfillment lies in the intersection of these elements—the bonds we form, the dedication we bring to our work, and the growth we achieve along the way.
Sitting on the foot of my bed on that Saturday in June, I closed my journal and reflected on my time at Queen’s thus far, realizing the cluttered room and the dreams written long ago were not just remnants of the past but symbols of a remarkable journey.
In the end, the transformative magic of Queen’s Fall Orientation is a reminder the pursuit of fulfillment and belonging isn’t a solitary journey but a shared experience enriched by the people we meet, the ions we cultivate, and the growth we achieve. It’s a journey that shapes us, uplifts us, and leaves us forever changed for the better.
With just 37 days until Fall Orientation 2024 begins, I’m filled with an overwhelming sense of emotion as I anticipate the new journey that await. The thought of welcoming over 5000 incoming students to Queen’s University, each one about to be embraced by an Orientation experience that promises warmth and lasting connection, fills me with profound gratitude.
I’m so fortunate I get to be part of creating such a special moment in their lives.
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