Little did I know when I registered for computer science in high school as my “least bad” option that it would become a passion, leading me to decide to study computer science and math at University of Manitoba. As I am sure no one is surprised, I was one of a small number of women in all my technical classes, particularly after first year. Any field of study benefits from different voices and ideas, and so I wanted to take an active role in sparking interest in technology in young women. Becoming a teacher generally and more specifically a teacher at Balmoral Hall School has given me a path to do that.
The biggest adventure for me has been starting a robotics program. We started with a club and now have a team that has competed and been successful in several tournaments! I have always wanted to offer as many avenues of computer science and engineering to the students here, and robotics is the first step to achieving that goal. I am very excited to see where the program goes next!
After almost five years here at the school, I can say that I feel like a part of the community. Sure, it may be as the quirky yet well-meaning nerd who you could go to in order to start a Dungeons and Dragons club, but a part of the community nonetheless! When I’m not in the lab, I’m either coaching or playing ultimate. This past summer, I had the opportunity to play and compete with Firefly, a touring mixed masters team. I also enjoy reading and knitting. The students know me as an avid Office fan and may or may not have succeeded getting me off-topic with a Jim versus Dwight debate!
I feel the most successful when a student finally solves a problem they have been having, whether it’s getting their Battleship program to work or having their robot successfully and consistently complete a challenge. I can honestly say that I cannot imagine doing anything else anywhere else. I have truly enjoyed my time teaching and learning with the young people and wonderful faculty and staff here at Balmoral Hall!