5Q Summer Edition: Riley Higdon, Summer Camps Intern
1. What is your summer internship and what will you take away from this experience?
I am currently enjoying my second year as the Mount Allison Intern. As the Summer Camps Intern my responsibilities range from camp logistics to staff management, including communicating with individuals and large groups from various backgrounds. I have connected with schools and teachers from around the province, parents and guardians both local and international, various departments within Mount Allison and members of Town Council. This role has been a very positive experience for me. Some areas in which I have seen personal growth are in communication and organizational skills, along with the capability to take initiative and be flexible in all types of situations.
2. What is the best thing about summer in Sackville?
The best thing about spending my summers in Sackville is the opportunity to connect with the community and to get to know people from within and outside of the Mount Allison campus. There are so many interesting people with different backgrounds and stories, and the summertime is a great chance to reach out and learn more about the people and the area we are surrounded by during the busy school year.
3. What are you involved in on campus?
Over the last three years I have been involved with , the Terry Fox Trek, S.M.I.L.E., Health Care Outreach, Health Matters, the Program, the MTA Field Hockey Team, and . I have also worked on campus as a Residence Assistant in Campbell Hall, a Campus Ambassador giving campus tours, as well as the Health Intern and an Assistant for the Mental Health Clinic at the .
4. What are you looking forward to most about your final year at Mount A?
Going into my final year I am feeling excited about the future and so thankful for the experiences that Mount Allison has given me. With everyone parting ways after graduation I am looking forward to this final year of bonding with my graduation class and appreciating everything that Mount Allison has to offer.
5. What are your post-grad plans?
I am very passionate about living a healthy lifestyle as well as working with, and helping, individuals from all backgrounds. After MtA I intend on pursuing further education to potentially work within the field of Health Education.
Bonus question: If you could give one piece of advice to first-year students, what would it be?
If I could give one piece of advice to incoming students it would be to get involved as much as you can, as early as you can. Every experience leads to further opportunities and it is very important to build your network. Try things outside of your comfort zone, and who knows you might find a new passion.