Jaime Taylor

LaSalle, Ontario
Graduating with a Bachelor of Human Kinetics in movement science with a minor in biology

How did you pick your major of study, and why did you choose the University of Windsor?

I had heard very positive things about Human Kinetics at the University of Windsor through some students I knew that were already in the program. I had also taken an exercise science class in grade 12 and really enjoyed the material. From there I knew that Human Kinetics was the area I wanted to study. In addition, both of my brothers had graduated from the University of Windsor and thoroughly enjoyed their experiences. It was no question that HK at the University of Windsor was the appropriate choice for me.

What were your expectations of university? Has the University of Windsor met those expectations?

I expected that university would be overwhelming and that I, as a student, would be known only as a number. My experience at the University of Windsor, particularly in the Human Kinetics program, was the exact opposite. The environment was friendly and comfortable, the professors were very helpful and personable and quite often learned my name, I met many great friends and made many connections throughout the campus, and I thoroughly enjoyed my experience.

What would you say is the most important thing you have learned at university: about yourself, about other people, about your field of study, or about the world?

From my experiences at university, I have learned that in life you are given the opportunity to make choices, not always for what happens to you, but at least for how you handle whatever may come your way. You simply get out of a situation or experience, what you put into it — whether it be your schoolwork, your friendships or the other relationships you develop throughout your education.

What would you say has been the most memorable part of your UWindsor experience?

In Human Kinetics we have the opportunity to do an Outdoor Recreation class that ends with a portaging trip in Algonquin Park. This trip provided me with the opportunity to learn a great deal about myself, and the others on the trip, and taught me to really be present in the moments you are in. The memories I have from that trip will last a lifetime.

Please tell us why you are proud to be part of the University of Windsor’s graduating class of 2011.

I am proud to be a part of the University of Windsor's graduating class of 2011 because I am graduating with some amazing individuals. Together we have worked hard and made it through four challenging, yet exciting years that have led us all to great success.

Did you have a course, professor or classmate who inspired you?

As I mentioned above, the Outdoor Recreation class was most inspirational to me. Vicky Paraschak, the HK professor who developed the course and leads the trip, helped us learn to focus on being present, to make the most of the situations we are faced with, and to take time to think about others and how everyones individual strengths make the group as a whole more successful. This experience and these lessons have really inspired me and have helped me grow in my own personal experiences.

What are your plans following graduation?

Following graduation, I plan to attend the University of Windsor's Bachelor of Education Program. I will be teaching in the Intermediate/Senior age group and will have teachables in Health & Physical Education and Biology.