Ever since she arrived at StFX from her home in Guayaquil, Ecuador, Andreina (Andie) Márquez de la Plata Gregor has hit the ground running.
“I’m taking advantage of the experience to the fullest. I came to get an education, but also to learn about life too. That’s what I’m doing,” says the third year honours sociology student who is excelling at StFX.
Academically, she’s in the top five per cent of her program and is an International Scholarship recipient. Outside of class, she’s actively involved at StFX and in the community.
During her time at StFX, she has worked as a research assistant with modern languages professor Dr. María Soledad Paz-Mackay; has taught in the Spanish lab; tutored Spanish in the community and through StFX’s Continuing Education; volunteered at Antigonish’s Friendship Corner; worked for StFX Conference Services at the StFX University Summer Hotel; and for all three years, has worked as a meal hall supervisor at Sodexo, the campus food provider.
Recently, Andie, whose future plans include social work, received news she’s a recipient of a Scotia Scholars Award for summer research that will focus on elder care. She will complete the research under the supervision of Dr. Katie Aubrecht, StFX sociology professor and Canada Research Chair Health Equity and Social Justice
Says Andie on her motivation: “I like to keep busy doing things that are fulfilling.”
Her StFX experience has been good, she says. “I really like it. I didn’t know what to expect. Everything has fallen into place, especially this year. A few professors are really looking after me.”
Recently, with input from her professors, she declared her honours in sociology. She will also take a minor in psychology.
Social work has always been where she’s inclined, but she says that decision was solidified a few years ago when a devastating earthquake hit her home country of Ecuador, destroying two cities.
“At that moment, I felt so powerless. I really wanted to help, but as a high school student, there is only so much you can do.”
She recalls seeing a lady who did help and thinking, “I want to be this person. That’s my job, helping. That was the final thing that let me know that’s what I want to do.”
From StFX faculty to friends she’s made in the community to her boss, she says everyone has all been so nice.
“StFX is helping me grow as a person. It’s what I wanted when I came here.”
As for her advice to other students considering StFX: “Take it. Do it.”
