Meet Beedie Luminary, Natalia Malagon, who is attending Simon Fraser University, Bachelor of Science Program.
What program will you be taking in post-secondary and why does it interest you?
Biomedical Physiology – because it is the intersection between pure sciences such as chemistry/biochemistry/etc and the relationship with the human body -physiology/anatomy courses. I believe this program is perfectly fitting to my current interests as well as my future career goals in medicine.
Tell us a little bit about your background (growing up, going to school, extra-curricular activities, etc.).
I was born in Colombia and moved to Canada the week I turned 1. In high school I had a point where I struggled, however, through my hard work and dedication I was able to gain my grasp on the material and continue to love it (specifically chemistry and math). Growing up I did all sorts of extra curricular such as dance, karate, soccer, badminton, piano, singing lessons, scouts, swimming, volleyball, and more. Over time, as school became slightly more rigorous I began to narrow down my activities, primarily sticking with dance and karate (completing my black belt). During my grade 12 year of high school I was diagnosed with cancer, so I was not able to continue my extra curricular or my academics really, or at least to any extent that I expected of myself before, however, throughout this time I tried to continue going to school and exercising occasionally when I was able to, for a bit of mental stimulation, social interaction, and physical health benefits. Throughout my “13th” year of high school I did well in my academics (however leaving room for full health recovery and blips along the way) and picked up dance again (not as much as I did before I was sick), going to the gym, and all my volunteering activities that I have been involved with (some for many years, some new) such as the Canadian Cancer Society youth council, public speaker for hospital fundraising events, the Burnaby MoreSports Society, SFU MBB research lab, GEMS girls club counsellor, and more.
Who inspires you, and why?
Christine Tulloch, a women who was brave, courageous, humble, and despite her horrible (yet made beautiful by her) battle with cancer was able to start an organization, the “she defines strength foundation” in order to uplift, support, and energize young women who have or are facing cancer. She had a positive energy that emanated from her miles away and that energy stays with her legacy, her organization, and all the people she impacted.
What motivates you, and why?
The power I have to create meaningful change in a positive way for future generations.
What are your goals for the upcoming school year?
Maintain healthy habits – exercise, healthy eating, mental health, and sleep. Academics – good grades, long term understanding of the material, engage with the material in a way that will help me for my future goals, and gain from all the experiences university has to offer. Altruism – helping others when I can, search for small ways in which I can impact/help others, continue volunteering.
What is one thing you learned in high school that you will take with you to post-secondary?
Health over academics, because if academics (or anything else) comes before health then I will come out with no gain in either.
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