The Alumni Association Governance and Nominations Committee was thrilled to award the 2023-24 Alumni Entrance Scholarship to Léa McLean, who will be studying kinesiology at Lakehead.
Léa is coming to us from Timmins, and we are eagerly awaiting her arrival on campus.
"Pursuing my education at Lakehead University gives me the opportunity to study in a tight-knit and prospering community, all while staying connected to my northern roots," she explains.
"Lakehead is a smaller university, and this will allow me to develop stronger connections with other students and teachers alike. I love the fact that I will be able to get to know people on a more personal level during my years at Lakehead, and I know that this academic environment will enable me to thrive and unleash my full potential."
Léa specifically chose Lakehead as her postsecondary destination because of its closeness to the Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM)—and she intends to apply to NOSM after completing her Honours Bachelor of Kinesiology.
"I hope to become an obstetrician/gynecologist and practice in Northern Ontario," Léa says.
She's already had an introduction to the field of medicine through her volunteer work at the Timmins and District Hospital where she greeted patients and directed them to their appointments.
"Volunteering at the hospital has taught me how to be personable and professional, skills that are important in any workplace or co-op placement," she says.
Another crucial element of Léa's decision to choose Lakehead for her studies—in addition to the University's excellent programs—is its wilderness setting. She's always enjoyed the great outdoors and the proximity of the Thunder Bay campus to hiking trails and to Lake Superior means that she will have easy access to many of her favourite activities including downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and running.
"Ever since the age of eight, I have been a cross-country runner," she says. "Now, I often reflect on just how much this sport has taught me about leadership and how it has affected my life."
Once Léa becomes a doctor, she would like to work in remote northern Indigenous communities and provide medical services in underserved areas.
The Alumni Association is proud to welcome such a community-spirited and dedicated young person to the Lakehead family. Congratulations, Léa!