Kylie Van Eaton, Bachelor of Arts in English graduate and Surrey resident, received Kwantlen’s President’s Outstanding Graduate Award for a bachelor's degree program at Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s 2010 Convocation ceremony held on Thursday at its Surrey Campus.
Van Eaton is a great example of how the university journey can lead to an unexpected destination: she entered Kwantlen four years ago as a biology student, and graduated today with a Bachelor of Arts, Major in English.
“I never imagined myself becoming a top English student,” says Van Eaton, “The instructors at Kwantlen encouraged my interest in English, and through them I was able to achieve success beyond my imagination.”
During her time at Kwantlen, Van Eaton has won numerous awards including the Dr. Barry Leach Memorial Award, the Georgia Milligan Scholarship for Excellence in English, and the Dr. Paul Kaushal Scholarship, all of which recognize her commitment to community service and her academic achievements.
“At Kwantlen, I found direction and confidence through the support of my teachers,” explains Van Eaton. “They consistently worked with me to help me achieve success in school and in life.”
Van Eaton credits her degree with helping her achieve her career goals by developing strong communication skills. “I’ve worked with the City of Surrey for three years,” she explains, “but was only promoted to my current job as a youth programmer when I completed my degree. I now have the opportunity to give back to the community by creating positive recreational activities for underprivileged youth.”
Van Eaton has definite plans to continue her education, “I plan to achieve my master’s degree in English within the next five years.”
Presented annually, this award encourages Kwantlen students to excel in their chosen fields of study and to participate in university, student and community activities to the benefit of others. Recipients have completed all their study in one program at Kwantlen; have consistently shown outstanding ability in the field; have contributed in a significant way to Kwantlen or community affairs; and may be recommended by faculty.
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