Valerie Naylor

Cobourg, Ontario
English Literature
Trent University Oshawa

Thinking back on her time at Trent University Oshawa, recent English Literature graduate Valerie Naylor says, “My time at Trent in Oshawa has not only prepared me for the future by providing the education and skills employers look for, but has provided me with a fulfilling journey and many fond memories.”

Describing her professors as “amazing, amusing and very memorable,” Valerie found her academic program to be both challenging and rewarding.

“Studying English literature has challenged me to analyze material closely and articulate precisely while providing the freedom to be creative,” she says. “I have thoroughly enjoyed studying Canadian authors and take pride in the contributions Canadians have made to the literary world.”

During her time at Trent University Oshawa, Valerie was also heavily involved with student groups and activities. One of her most memorable experiences was as vice-president of Trent at the Student Association for two years.

“This experience has given me the opportunity to build leadership, teamwork, and time management skills outside the classroom,” Valerie says. “It has also provided me with many exciting experiences such as being able to attend conferences in Ottawa, St. Johns, Niagara Falls, and Halifax where I met student leaders from around Canada to compare best practices and gain new ideas and insight.”

As the SA VP, Valerie was also able to work with a lot of student groups within Trent in Oshawa, most significantly the peer mentors. She also sat on a variety of committees including the Trent in Oshawa – Durham Region Steering Committee to provide the student perspective for Trent’s new Thornton Road Campus, opening in September 2010.

Upon graduating from Trent, Valerie took on a new challenge as the enrolment advisor for Trent University Oshawa. "I am excited to be working in this position," she says. "I enjoyed my time at Trent in Oshawa so much I wish to share my experiences in hopes others will find their fit at Trent in Oshawa and have as many wonderful memories as I do."