On June 15 2022, Émilie Ménard graduated from Sudbury’s École Secondaire Macdonald-Cartier. She is one of many students eager to begin her postsecondary education at Laurentian this fall. As Émilie begins her first year as an éducation concomitant student, her sister, Stéphanie Ménard, embarks on her fourth and final undergraduate year of studies in psychologie. Stéphanie was present at Émilie’s graduation ceremony not only as a proud big sister, but also as a representative for Laurentian. At this event, Stéphanie, who is a Liaison Projects Student Ambassador, had the special opportunity to award her sister with a bursary. This award honours one hard-working graduating student from each Greater Sudbury high school, accepting an offer to Laurentian in September.
Stéphanie described that “it was such an honour to be able to present this award to Émilie. When they called my name to go on stage to give the award, my sister actually cheered for me in her cap and gown. I got to stand there knowing that they were going to call her name next. I was really proud as she walked across the stage. She was crying. I was crying. And because we are sisters, we hugged and the whole crowd applauded. It was truly a wonderful and cherished moment. I’m looking forward to seeing what Émilie has to offer and accomplish at Laurentian.”
An incredibly driven student, Émilie also earned a substantial academic excellence scholarship from Laurentian that will help offset her tuition fees. About becoming a Laurentian student, she explained that though she’s a little bit nervous, she is “just really excited for September to come around. I can’t wait.”
For Émilie, Laurentian is familiar and gives her comfort. Being from the local community, she’s had the pleasure of visiting campus on many occasions and expressed that she looks forward to meeting new friends and learning about topics she’s passionate about. This includes teachable subjects, History and English Literature, Media, and Writing. Because Laurentian offers courses instructed in both English and French, Émilie described feeling confident that the University is a place where she can continue to celebrate her francophone culture and heritage. “My goal is to be able to teach in both languages,” she said. “And in the future, I hope to be a high school teacher doing so.”
“Émilie will make a great teacher,” said Stéphanie about her sister. “In this career, she will have the chance to make an impact on the lives of a lot of students…and she’ll be able to advocate for them and teach them in both official languages.”
The Ménard sisters are eager to be on campus together next year. Much like her sister, Émilie looks forward to engaging in the Laurentian community, and anticipates many bright opportunities ahead.
For those interested in the pursuit of studies at Laurentian University, campus tours are available Monday through Friday at 10:00 am and 1:00 pm, as well as most Saturdays at 12:00 noon. Visiting campus is the best way to get the full experience of life at Laurentian University for your undergraduate or graduate degree. Showcased is everything from learning spaces and lecture halls, labs to libraries, residences to food services, and everything in between.
More information about booking a campus tour can be found on Laurentian’s website, or by reaching out directly at either liaison@laurentian.ca or by calling 1-800-461-4030 ext 3109.