Waterloo and Wanderlust

Written by Laura Dunlop, BA ‘12

It’s hard to believe that just over one year ago I was writing my final university exam and saying goodbye to friends as I packed up my apartment. Like most new graduates, I wasn’t sure where I was headed or what I wanted to do, but I knew that, with my Waterloo degree and a bit of determination, the possibilities ahead of me were limitless.

As a student I’d been extremely involved on campus, working as a Research Assistant, Orientation Leader, Student Ambassador and Don in residence. To this day, everywhere I go, I share my love for Waterloo. It wouldn’t be an understatement to say that at this point, I pretty much bleed black and gold.  

A lot of my Waterloo pride comes from the fact that my path to Waterloo wasn’t the typical story. I was a transfer student, who after a terrible first year, was looking for a second shot at an amazing university experience when Waterloo, unexpectedly, sent me an offer of admission. Waterloo was there for me and never let me down, providing me with an amazing 5 years filled with priceless experiences and countless memories.

So when the time came to look for a job, it was no surprise that I turned my attention to the place I’d called home for the last 5 years. I had my eye on the particular position of Liaison Officer, a job that entailed traveling throughout Ontario and speaking to prospective students about the University of Waterloo, and that would allow me to share my Waterloo pride on a daily basis. 

As luck would have it, about a week before I embarked on a 2-month solo-backpacking trip through Europe, I got the job. Two months later, I came home from Europe with a wealth of new experiences and bad case of wanderlust, ready to continue sharing my love of Waterloo.

The time I spent as a Liaison Officer was more rewarding than I could have ever imagined and I often wonder how many of the students I met along my travels ended up choosing Waterloo. When my contract ended, I was offered the opportunity to continue working with students and moved to the role of Assistant Coordinator, New Student Transition in the Student Success Office, helping to organize events and provide information to students to help them transition from high school to university.

For me, it’s all about giving back to new and future students. Waterloo gave me an amazing university experience, and I want every student to have the same. So, in the words of Tina Roberts (Director, Marketing and Undergraduate Recruitment), I am a Waterloo raving fan, and will be for a long time coming.