When you're passionate about something, it pays off, according to Shyanne Blomquist, Class of 2020.

The early learning and child care grad was recognized as a 2020 President's Circle recipient for her outstanding leadership.

“Being selected blew me away and my heart feels so full because there are so many other people at the college who could've been selected. I'm thankful for the person who nominated me and to everyone who supported me at Lakeland,” she says. Blomquist was also recognized as the 2020 Vermilion campus Residence Leader of the Year award, as well as graduated from her program on the dean's list with honours.

When Blomquist arrived at Lakeland two years ago, she says she suffered from social anxiety. Because of this, she was looking forward to taking her education at a rural, community-based college with small class sizes.

Blomquist stressed that she was homesick for the first month. However, Lakeland provided numerous opportunities for her to gain the confidence she needed to excel in and beyond the classroom.

“Things started to change for me once I started to be a part of the college community. I realized that many people cared about my success. I could go to my instructors about anything. They know you by more than just your name. I didn't have to feel shy, embarrassed or awkward to go into their offices and ask for help,” she says.

“It's a once in a lifetime experience here at Lakeland.”

Over the last two years, Blomquist put her education into practice with the award-winning Play Program and a class project that inspired a donation-based drive to support Youth Empowerment & Support Services in Edmonton, Alta. She also became a peer tutor, a student ambassador and a residence assistant for the Vermilion campus dorms.

“I loved all of the hands-on learning throughout my program. I could tell Lakeland aims for an inclusive and well-rounded learning environment. Because of Lakeland, I've become a stronger person and I want to pay it forward by being the best person I can be.”

Blomquist's Lakeland journey isn't over yet. She's returning to complete the child and youth care program online. Blomquist says her studies bring her closer to making a difference in the lives of youth from all walks of life. She also hopes to pursue American Sign Language and Deaf culture studies in the future.

 

Photos: Blomquist interacts with a toddler during the ELCC Play Program.