Prefect Perspective

Wow, I cannot believe this is my Grade 12 year! I am this year’s Academic Prefect, a new portfolio with many opportunities to determine what this role can be for Albert College. Already this year I’ve launched a peer tutoring program for Senior School students. But today, I will not be writing about academics, but rather, the road of passions, the ones left behind on the shoulder and the few that took a seat, which define who I am today.

My family always encouraged me to try new activities. In the winter, I was a hockey defenseman, fighting for the puck; in the spring, I was crossing the soccer ball to the net as a left winger; and in the summer, I played shortstop in baseball. I also took up competitive swimming, piano and vocal lessons, and speed-solving Rubik’s Cubes.

I enjoyed the sports I played, but gradually, after a few seasons, I felt something change in my attitude towards them. I found that I did not look forward to them anymore—frankly, they felt like a chore—but it took me multiple years to realize it. I was confused as to why I felt this way until I seriously reflected on it. I wasn’t passionate about any of my passions!

I was going because I went last year. I never put in extra time outside of practices. I dipped one foot in each sport, but never both. And I never felt I wanted to.

The COVID-19 lockdown stopped everything, but as things started to open again, I discovered new interests that resonated with me. I play the saxophone in Albert’s Jazz Band; I’m learning how to DJ; and I enjoy managing the audio and video technology around Albert College. I play badminton competitively year-round and represented central Ontario in the 2024 Ontario Winter Games.

I’d like to tell my younger self to think, to check in with myself, and pursue what is purposeful to me. I only found what I am passionate about after leaving what was no longer serving me on the roadside. I believe there are others, younger and older, who may also want to think about what they could leave behind too, so that they can find something that truly excites them.

This is just the perspective I’ve gained over the last few years. Looking ahead, I’m excited about what’s ahead at Albert College and where my passions take me after graduation!

- Ethan, Grade 12 student and Academics Prefect