Melissa Backhouse

Year of Graduation: 2013

University: York University (Glendon Campus)

Program(s): Honours iBA and BEd (French) through the Concurrent Ed program, including a year abroad in Geneva & Certificate of Bilingual Excellence

Work Experience: Education/Daycares, MCSS/MCYS French Language Services, Deputy Minister of Education’s office, nonprofit office coordination at Futurpreneur Canada

Notable Experience: Living abroad (Switzerland!) on my own for the first time, plans/choices changing unexpectedly (systematic/governmental changes can thwart even the best laid plans), gaining unique skills through hobbies I love and appreciating their value regardless of “usefulness” in the workforce, and gaining confidence in myself despite mental health struggles!

Words of Wisdom: It’s great to have role models and something to prove, but the only expectations you should really worry about living up to/letting down are your own! Anyone who cares about you will understand and do their best to support you as you move forward with your best path.

Contact: mbackhouse@hotmail.ca