Preparing for My Bronfman Trip

 

As the anticipation builds and excitement starts to bubble up, I find myself on the brink of an unforgettable adventure— my Bronfman to Ottawa. It's not just a trip; it's an opportunity to delve into a realm of discovery, learning, and POLICY.  (What can I say? I am a policy nerd!)

At first, I had romantic notions of traveling by train. There's something inherently romantic about train journeys, isn't there?  It felt like the quintessential Canadian experience. Besides, I couldn't shake the thought that Via Rail cars probably weren't made by Boeing! I admit it, I really hate flying. However, as I dug deeper into the logistics, I realized that the train might not be the most practical option for this trip.

One of the most rewarding and yet nauseatingly terrifying tasks in preparing for this trip was reaching out to members of parliament and senators to arrange visits. It required me to dig deep into my self-confidence and muster the courage to sell the idea of ME to others—a task that doesn't come naturally to me. (She said while writing a braggadocious blog post).  I had to recognize my strengths and present them confidently to influential figures, which was both scary and exhilarating. Despite my initial apprehensions, I was pleasantly surprised by the overwhelmingly positive responses I received. I am learning the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone and seizing opportunities for growth.

As I prepare for this adventure, I am trying hard to embrace the unknown. While I have an outline of what to expect, I recognize that the essence of this journey lies in the unexpected moments, the serendipitous encounters, and the uncharted territories waiting to be explored. With a spirit of curiosity and a sense of adventure, I am ready to embrace every twist and turn that awaits me in Ottawa.

Introduction - A Bronfman Tale

Hi, I'm Meghan, a passionate student at Mount Saint Vincent University, pursuing a double major in Political Science and Women's Studies with a concentration in Public Policy.

In the fall of 2023, I took a leap of faith and applied for the prestigious Bronfman award. This award held immense significance for me, as it symbolized not only recognition but also a chance to further my academic pursuits. I poured my heart and soul into the application, fueled by my deep passion for making a positive impact in the realms of politics and policy.

A month later, I received an email that changed everything. I had won the Bronfman award. The news left me both floored and humbled. Knowing that a panel of experts had chosen my contribution as the best was an indescribable feeling. However, amidst the excitement, doubt began to creep in.

As the reality of winning the award sank in, doubt took hold. Thoughts like, "Do I truly deserve this?" and "Can I live up to the expectations?" flooded my mind. It was a moment of internal struggle, questioning my capabilities and wondering if I was truly ready for the next chapter.

With tickets purchased and the hotel booked, the upcoming event is starting to feeling real. The doubt persists, but I absolutely see this as an opportunity for growth. A chance to overcome imposter syndrome and embrace the recognition for my dedication and hard work.

As a storyteller, I am eager to share my journey with friends, family, and fellow mature students who may be hesitant to take similar leaps. The Bronfman award is not just a personal achievement; it's a testament to the possibilities that open up when we dare to pursue our passions and dreams.

In sharing my experience, I hope to inspire others to embrace opportunities, even in the face of doubt. The Bronfman award taught me that our aspirations are valid, and age should never be a barrier to taking those bold steps toward a brighter future. Whether you're a student like me or someone considering a new path, remember that triumph often awaits on the other side of doubt.