Valedictorian profile
Class Valedictorian Ben Boudreau refers to his time at Mount Saint Vincent University as an adventure. From the first day, the public relations program has kept him very busy with client work, professional development sessions, networking events and of course co-operative education, constantly challenging him to prove himself.
This Halifax native values his program’s unique structure, which allowed him to work for the Downtown Halifax Business Commission and Public Health Agency of Canada in Ottawa. Ben is proud to have had the rare opportunity to apply what he learned in class to the real world.
“The public relations program meant that after four years, I could enter the workforce in almost any sector and in any location,” explains this bright-eyed student. “I loved the freedom to chose, not to mention the fact that I would graduate with a full year’s worth of experience in the workforce. With all these factors, I was confident in my abilities as my program came to a close.”
The biggest challenge Ben faced was his drive to not disappoint or not let anyone down. He has always strived to be the best that he can be.
“As with most of my colleagues, I truly respected the opinions of my professors and clients. I always tried my hardest to exceed their expectations. Seeing how proud they are of us today made every late night and stressful weekend worth it.”
The longest lasting memories will not be of those of his adventures on his co-op placements, but of the friendships he made along the way.
“Each of my professors and schoolmates not only know me by name, but also understand my personality, interests, strengths and weaknesses. As such, when I need input on a project, the job search or just an ear to listen when I’m stressed, I have 70 people that I can turn to no matter what. I cannot say enough great things about my mentors and colleagues to do them justice for how they’ve helped me complete this adventure.”
Over the past four years, Ben has developed into a confident young man who is ready to take on any challenge life may throw his way. He can’t wait to establish himself in the public relations industry and pursue further challenges.
“I’d like to get a good year of solid experience behind me and then I’ll think about starting a master’s program part-time. That should keep me busy until I’m eligible to begin the accreditation program with Canadian Public Relations Society. I’m very determined to keep pushing myself to bigger and better things,” exclaims Ben.