This interview is part of a series, called “We Are Lakefield” — inspired by a phrase you’ll often hear our students and Head of School (Ms. Kee) say with pride (followed by “We got this.”) when community spirit and strength are needed to power through a uniquely challenging time, event, or activity. In this series, you’ll hear personal reflections from our students that provide valuable insight into what it means to be a part of the LCS community.
This week, we spoke with one of our Grade 12 Grade Representatives, Kaneza ’23 to learn more about her experience at Lakefield College School. In this article, Kaneza speaks about her journey of discovering LCS and the warm and welcoming community that quickly became her second home.Discovering LCS
“I had never heard of Lakefield College School (LCS) prior to starting the admission process. My parents and I had decided that I would continue my studies in Canada and while looking for the right school, we found LCS. I was immediately drawn to the campus and the small community. I came from a very small international school so Lakefield’s smaller yet vibrant community appealed to me greatly.”
Finding Home Away From Home
“I adjusted fairly quickly, however, I have to give credit to my friends for making that possible. I made such amazing friends in my first few months on campus and they were definitely the reason LCS became my second home so quickly. Like everyone, I did experience moments of homesickness but they were usually short-lived and nothing a call from home couldn’t fix. There’s so much to do here that it keeps your mind occupied for a large part of the day.”
An Inclusive Community
“LCS has some of the most welcoming and kind students, faculty and staff alike. I genuinely believe that everyone can find a friend group here that meshes well with their personality. However, I think what truly sets our school apart has to be the faculty. I’ve moved schools and experienced different education systems and I can confidently say I’ve never had such a supportive group of teachers who will do everything in their power to see students thrive and succeed. The bonds we form with staff and faculty is something unlike anything I’ve ever seen; many of them become like our friends and family.”
Unveiling Leadership Potential
“A program I discovered was the Student Life Class (SLC). The SLC is a class offered to Grade 12 students to work on their leadership skills throughout the year. We learn valuable life skills while bringing school spirit to our community. I think this class has made the most visible and significant contribution to my leadership growth; and it’s all thanks to my peers, Mr. O’Grady, and Ms. Wilcox. In the SLC, we learn why being a meaningful and effective leader is such a crucial skill to learn from a young age. I have learned how to be a good visible leader while also understanding the value of the work that goes on being the scenes.”
Fearless Pursuit of the Unknown
“After I graduate this week, I will be attending university in the United Kingdom. My time here has taught me so much and one thing I’ll forever thank LCS for is teaching me to not fear the unknown. With the countless co-curricular programs and clubs the school offers, we students are pushed outside of our comfort zones to try new things. We are taught to embrace new experiences and always see the positives of every outcome. Had I not attended LCS, I don’t think I would’ve made the decision to move away from my family and friends to pursue my studies. I’ve grown more confident in myself and my abilities during my time at LCS.”
#WeAreLakefield
“For any teenager considering LCS, I would say go for it! The people you’ll meet here are like no other; kind, compassionate, thoughtful and so much more. Like every new experience, it might be nerve-racking at first, but the memories you will create here will make all the nerves worth it.”
