Lauren Finney ’11, B.A.H Psychology, Bethany, ON

Ms. Lauren Finney is incorporating her keen interests in health and wellness into her academic studies.  Her honours thesis research focussed on the psychological and emotional impact of exercise. After completing her HR Business Administration Certificate at Fleming College she hopes to incorporate her skills to help employees be more productive in the workplace through fitness and health. Ms. Finney has been on the Dean’s List consistently since 2011 and played rugby for Trent.

What are your future goals?
I am planning to continue my education at Fleming College and build on my undergraduate degree. I am interested in pursuing a career in Human Resources so I plan to take the HR Business Administration Certificate.

I hope to work in the prevention side of Human Resources working in fitness and health to help employees be more productive in the workplace.

What did you get out of your Trent degree? 
My research interests lie within health and wellness with a focus on obesity prevention and fitness. I completed my honours thesis in psychology investigating people’s experience while exercising at the Trent gym with different views of nature, and their ability to accurately predict the positive emotions and enjoyment associated with exercise.

I have always been interested in fitness, athletics, and nutrition but I was not sure how to apply these interests. When I decided to pursue my honours thesis I had to the opportunity to work with an amazing professor who allowed me to conduct research in an area that I was really interested in. It was an amazing experience.

What is the best thing about studying at Trent?
I think the overall atmosphere at Trent is very positive and I think a number of factors contribute to this; the small class sizes, the professors, the administrative staff, and the other students. I transferred in second year and I am so happy I did. My experience at Trent has been amazing and I would encourage everyone who wants to get the most out of their undergrad to come to Trent!

Can you give an example of how Trent professors had a special impact?
The professors at Trent really care about their students and it shows. The professors in the psychology department have all been great educators and very supportive. My thesis supervisor, Lisa Nisbet, has left a lasting impact on my education. She has taught me so much in my last year at Trent and I have so much to thank her for.

Extracurricular activities:
Completing my honours thesis definitely had the greatest impact on my personal development during my time at Trent, but playing rugby for Trent was also a positive experience. Playing rugby gave me the opportunity to meet a lot of great people and feel connected to the university through the athletics program.

Awards and Scholarships received at Trent University:

• Dean’s Honour Roll (2011-2013)