(May 20, 2025) - When Emily Davidge (Burlington, ON) arrived at Laurentian University for a campus tour in the middle of the 2020 pandemic, she wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. Social distancing had come into effect, most in-person visits had been paused, and campus was unusually quiet. Nevertheless, she and her father were offered a “wonderful personalized experience” that she described not only highlighted the beauty of the Sudbury campus, but also offered her a glimpse into a close-knit learning environment that just felt right.

Now graduating with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) and a minor in Law and Justice, Davidge’s time at Laurentian has been anything but ordinary. A walk-on player for the Voyageurs Women’s Soccer team in her second year, she also held leadership roles across the Business Student Council — rising from Social Media Coordinator, to Vice President and ultimately, serving as President. Davidge also got involved as a student member on the Faculty of Management’s Grade Appeal committee, and was hired by the Office of Domestic Recruitment as a student ambassador in her first year. “I took great pride in representing Laurentian at recruitment events such as Open House and the Ontario Universities’ Fair. Chatting with future business students about what makes Laurentian’s BBA unique was incredibly motivating.” According to Emily, staff like Events and Communication Liaison Coordinator, Danielle Yasko, foster a supportive and positive work environment for student ambassadors, leading to the development of meaningful bonds.

But one of her most defining experiences came during her third year: a semester abroad in Dijon, France, where she specialized in Wine Tourism at the Burgundy School of Business.

“At the time, I didn’t speak much French, and I was the only Laurentian student there,” she recalls. “But those four months were transformative. I met people from around the world, traveled across Europe, and grew so much by being outside my comfort zone.”

That sense of growth has become a theme for Davidge, both academically and personally.

“Looking back to my first year, it’s amazing to see how much I have evolved. My experiences both inside and outside the classroom have shaped me into a much stronger, more capable person - it’s been a journey of building confidence and leadership.” In recognition of her many accomplishments, Davidge earned the 2025 Business Excellence Award through the Business Student Council. 

Her next challenge begins at dentsu Canada, where she’s accepted a full-time role as a Media Planning Coordinator - a position she secured after completing two internships with the company. She also plans to keep traveling, reconnecting with friends from her exchange.

For future students, Davidge offers this advice: “Stay passionate, and find what makes you, you. Explore student teams, clubs, and initiatives—they’re invaluable for personal growth, building your resume, and creating lasting connections. Also, stay consistent. Don’t leave everything until the last minute. Go to lectures, do the readings, and commit to the work outside of class—it really does make a difference. You can’t ask questions if you don’t show up, and you can’t grow if you’re just going through the motions. Stay engaged, stay curious, and make sure you actually understand what you're learning. That’s where the real value is.”

As she prepares to cross the stage at convocation, Davidge says she’ll always carry a deep appreciation for Laurentian and the opportunities it gave her. Until then, she’s heading into the future with curiosity, confidence, and a few more passport stamps on the horizon.