Erin Bonisteel

I am passionate about the aims of UWC and I feel as though I belong here

Where do you come from?
I come from a small community in rural Newfoundland called New Harbour. I live right next to the Atlantic Ocean, about an hour away from Newfoundland and Labrador’s capital, St. John’s. Growing up in a community of just 1000 people has opened my eyes to many unique experiences.

What were your first impressions upon arriving at Pearson College UWC?
Upon my arrival everyone (staff and students) were incredibly friendly. They did everything possible to welcome us and make us feel comfortable. Even though they were strangers to me at the time, I had a good feeling that we would become a family very soon, and I could feel the sense of unity in the Pearson community even after a few days. Being from rural Newfoundland, the diversity of people and cultures was intriguing and I continue to learn new things every day. My first day at Pearson College UWC confirmed that this would be an experience like no other.

How did you find out about Pearson College UWC?
I found out about Pearson through word of mouth. My cousin, who is part of the Canadian navy, spent a summer at the college (using its facilities for sailing), and always commented on the beauty of the campus. I heard about Pearson College UWC again through family and friend connections. I looked it up online and after reading the UWC mission and values I decided to apply.

Why did you choose UWC as opposed to staying at your previous school?
Though my previous school was great, the UWC experience was something that I just couldn’t pass up. I wanted to make a bigger difference and I wasn’t being as challenged at my old school as I would have liked to be. The UWC experience was not only something that would do wonders for my education, but rather something that would benefit me in all aspects of my life. I am passionate about the aims of UWC and I feel as though I belong here.

What do you most enjoy about life at Pearson College UWC?
The people are what I enjoy most about life here. Every day I have many stimulating conversations and discussions with people from all over the world. It’s amazing, because you come to realise that even though we have our differences, we are so much alike at the same time. Everyone is supportive, dedicated and respectful.

What has been the hardest or most challenging thing so far?
The most challenging thing so far is probably keeping in mind at all times that things that are okay in my culture may not be okay in someone else’s culture. It is really important to me that I’m respectful to everyone, but it becomes tricky when sometimes you just don’t know. However, everyone has been genuine and honest, and mistakes are forgiven. We’re all just learning and we’re not afraid of failure.

What subjects are you taking?
English A1, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Math Standard, Biology, Chemistry and French.

What other activities are you involved in?
My CAS activities are ocean kayaking and Ukrainian dance. I also participate in a singing group unofficially called “The Figgy.” Last term my fitness activity was rugby, which was so much fun and an awesome learning experience!

What are your ambitions after you leave Pearson College UWC?
After I leave Pearson College UWC I plan to continue my studies at university in hope of becoming a medical doctor. I would like to specialise perhaps in genetics or dermatology. One thing I would really love to do is join Doctors without Borders. Apart from whatever career I pursue, I plan to engage in my community, doing whatever I can to give back and foster an accepting atmosphere.

Having been selected, what advice would you give to someone who wants to apply?
Go for it! If you are a motivated person who’s willing to work hard and come to UWC with an open mind, apply. You’ll never know if you don’t try. At Pearson College UWC, we learn to take risks and embrace failure. Think in these terms as you are applying. It may be the first step to an experience of a lifetime.

12 January 2011