Meet Beedie Luminary Julia Townsend from Cohort 2020. Julia is attending Kwantlen Polytechnic University for Journalism and plans to pursue a minor in Sociology as well. Learn More about Julia.
What is your field of study and why does it interest you?
I’m majoring in journalism and planning to minor in sociology. I’ve always loved reading, writing, and learning and discussing current events, so journalism felt like the perfect balance of my interests.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Celebrate the small accomplishments, and don’t compare your achievements with someone else’s; we’re all at different points in our lives.
What would you name the autobiography of your life?
I’m not sure. Maybe “Blooming.” I like that.
Do you have a motto or personal mantra?
You’ll never know unless you try!
What was the last experience that made you a better person?
I accidentally locked my keys (and phone) in the car for the first time while loading the trunk this past week. That experience definitely tested my patience and problem-solving skills, and I had to think quickly about how to get them out. While it wasn’t a fun recent experience, I was reminded of the importance of thinking through my actions and having backup plans for when things go wrong!
What is something you learned in the last week?
I learned how to latch hook! After a whole ton of YouTube videos and patience, I made my first rug.
What’s the coolest (or most important) trend you see today?
Definitely younger people becoming involved in politics and social change. In the past (which wasn’t too long ago), youth were discredited by older generations for being too young to participate in these kinds of discussions. Social media has given younger people access to tools and information so that we can have a say in the world around us.
Who inspires you and why?
My grandmother! She’s the most determined and persistent woman I know. She will be 92 this year and still goes on 10k hikes once a week. She’s also the oldest member of the Vancouver Russian Orchestra! Her love for life and specific passions inspire me to pursue my own interests.
What would people be surprised to find out about you?
I have a rare genetic disorder called Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, which means that all of my joints are hypermobile/double-jointed. Although it comes with complications, I have some pretty cool party tricks.
What is your favourite thing about being a part of Beedie Luminaries?
The community I’ve been introduced to and all the wonderful people I’ve met. Being a Beedie Luminary is always having a sense of belonging. I can talk to another Luminary for the first time and know that we’ll have an automatic connection.
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