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Lauren Fulton, Waverly, NS is studying Engineering on the Truro campus and is a right side hitter on the Ram's Women's Volleyball team.

How did you become interested in Engineering?

Engineering was first suggested to me by my Math and Pre-Calculus 11 teacher, Jennifer MacIsaac-Williams. Once she introduced the idea, I began researching the field and quickly realized how much it aligned with my interests. I was drawn to the opportunity to apply creativity and math skills while working on solutions that make a real impact. So far, I’ve really enjoyed the program and am excited to see what the future holds as I continue my degree.

Why did you choose to study on the Truro campus?

I chose to study at the Truro campus because it offered the perfect balance between academics, athletics and personal growth. Staying close to home allowed me to maintain strong connections with family and friends while also gaining independence and adjusting to university life. The opportunity to continue playing volleyball was another major factor in my decision, as I wanted to keep competing while pursuing my studies. Additionally, the smaller class sizes at Truro provide a more personalized learning experience, allowing for more interaction with professors and hands-on learning opportunities that enhance my education. Overall, studying at the Truro campus has given me the best of both worlds: a supportive environment where I can excel academically and athletically.

You are involved in extra curriculars. How do you balance the heavy workload with personal time?

Adjusting to the demands of engineering and volleyball took time, and it’s not always easy to find the right balance. It can be overwhelming trying to juggle coursework, practices, and other commitments, and sometimes it’s easy to forget to take personal time. The strategy that worked best for me was creating a schedule and breaking assignments into smaller tasks that I can tackle each day. I also make use of short breaks throughout the day to be productive, which helps lighten my workload and reduce stress. At the same time, I’ve learned that taking time to relax and enjoy the university experience is just as important, avoiding burnout is key to staying motivated and performing well both academically and athletically.

Best advice for future students?

Whenever you feel like you’re not smart enough, remember that everyone experiences self-doubt at some point, you’re not alone. The challenges may seem overwhelming at times, but you’re stronger than you think, and every struggle is part of the learning process. Stay persistent, lean on your support system, and trust that the hard work will be worth it in the end