Jasmine Bajus
What education have you taken?
I am currently in my fourth year of a Bachelor of Science Degree at Brandon University. I started my journey at BU in the fall of 2014 after graduating from Elkhorn School. I will be graduating with my first degree from Brandon University this spring, with a double major in Mathematics and History. I am planning on entering the Bachelor of Education After Degree Program at BU in the fall of 2017 and am looking forward to furthering my education.
What accomplishments (awards, scholarships, volunteer work, organizations, memberships, etc.) are you proud of?
Throughout my time at Brandon University, I have worked hard to reach the goals I want to achieve. Because of this, I am very proud of the academic success I have had thus far and of the work I have put in to attain it. I am honoured to have this effort and success acknowledged in the form of scholarships and the nomination for this recognition as an exceptional female student as well. I am also proud to be one of the students asked to work on the Prairie History project, a joint initiative of Brandon University and Assiniboine Community College to promote the history of the prairies. I was asked to set up and organize the social media platforms for Prairie History because of the interest in a similar project I did for the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum as a university assignment. For me, being given the chance to be included in this initiative to promote prairie history is an exciting opportunity and an honour.
Tell us about yourself/ your background/ your history.
I grew up on a mixed grain and cattle farm just outside Elkhorn, Manitoba with my family. I am very proud of my rural roots and how my love of agriculture has impacted my character. I have always had a passion for learning and an interest in a wide variety of extra-curricular activities including volleyball, softball and curling. I am happiest when spending time with my friends and family!
How did you become interested in your field of study?
I knew that I wanted to study math before I entered Brandon University. I have always enjoyed number problems, formulas and algebra and was excited to broaden my knowledge at the university level. It wasn’t until I started taking classes at BU that I discovered my passion for history, or more specifically, social history. There are two reasons as to why I want to enter the field of education; I would love to spread my love of learning into the minds of others and I strongly believe that education is the most powerful tool any person can be given. I am very excited to enter the Bachelor of Education After-Degree Program at BU and take the next step to becoming an educator.
What is your philosophy in life?
Although there have been many philosophies that have influenced me, there are a few attitudes that I try to hold towards life. I strongly believe that kindness is the most important contribution that anyone can make to the world. As Paramahansa Yogananda states, “Kindness is the light that dissolves all walls between souls, families and nations.” Practicing kindness is something I strive to do, and I believe it has played a major role in my success as a student, employee and community member. Additionally, I try to keep the philosophy that when one works hard, they can achieve anything. Life begins to look a lot less difficult with a positive attitude and the ability to tell yourself, “I can, and I will.”
Where do you see yourself in the future?
In the future, I plan to graduate from Brandon University with both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Education. After that, I can see myself getting a senior-years teaching job in a community somewhere in South-Western Manitoba. After a few years of teaching, I could see myself eventually returning to university to further my education and pursue a Master’s Degree.
Nominator’s Comments:
Jasmine is one of the strongest students I have encountered during my teaching and professional career. She is thoughtful, creative, well organized, has a strong work ethic, and is consistent in terms of work habits, attendance, and preparation. She is a natural leader and is especially successful in getting other students engaged during group and other activities. Her research and writing skills are excellent. It is without reservation and with considerable enthusiasm that I recommend her for this honour.