October 9, 2024 - Aurel Fox-Recollet, a 30-year-old Bachelor of Social Work student at Laurentian University is running toward a bright future where academics are priority, resilience is rewarded, and balance is key. As the athletic accolades add up, Aurel is approaching his academic journey the same way he approaches his long-distance running: at his own pace.
Aurel’s upbringing in the small rural community of Wikwemikong inspired him to explore social work as a career option. “Growing up, you hear about the needs of the people and I thought social work would be a good fit for me.” He started by taking the Indigenous Specialization in the Social Service Worker Program at Cambrian College, then transferred many of those credits to take the Bachelor of Social Work program at Laurentian.
The natural environment that makes up the Laurentian campus brings Aurel a sense of comfort and belonging. “It’s small! I went to a university in southern Ontario to visit a friend, and their campus felt like a city. At Laurentian, you get to know the campus and the people quickly. It feels like home,” he shared, adding that the smaller class sizes have fostered relationships with professors.
Aurel’s interest in social work is deeply personal. “I wanted to take the lessons that I had learned as a college student who struggled from time to time with alcohol-use and turn them into a means of helping others. I think that my lived experience makes me a great support to others who are struggling with life’s challenges.”
Fusing his affinity for community and his commitment to helping others, Aurel worked as a peer coach with both the Peer Wellness Program and the Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre over the summer.
In addition to his studies, Aurel is an avid long-distance runner, dedicating himself to his craft with discipline. “I run almost every day, logging about 80 kilometers a week,” he shared. “The most I will run in a week is 95 kilometers, and the least is around 70. Running is my lifestyle, it’s part of who I am.”
He recently claimed victory in the Sudbury Masters Ramsey Tour Half Marathon in September, in addition to silver and bronze medals at the Masters Indigenous Games in 2023. “I enjoy running for myself, on my own schedule, and I’m excited to defend my title next year and continue to find news races to compete in.”
Aurel’s running is deeply intertwined with his well-being. “If I’m not running, I’m not my best self,” he confessed. Running provides him clarity and emotional wellness, offering a time for reflection and connection with nature. “I’m introverted and running gives me a chance to think and process everything.”
Aurel’s competitive spirit motivates his running and academic goals. “I’m always looking for self-improvement. I want to win races, and qualifying for the Boston Marathon is a dream of mine. But more than that, I want to achieve high standards in my studies because I want my parents to see me succeed. Bringing home a university degree is the goal.”
As Aurel continues his studies at Laurentian, he is not just carving a path for himself; he is also inspiring those around him through his resilience, discipline, and unwavering commitment. His journey reflects a belief in the power of community, the importance of self-awareness, and the relentless pursuit of self-betterment.