Convocation spotlight: Edan Wade

Like many of her peers, Edan Wade grew up deeply involved in sport and recreation, but had no idea that there was a way to combine her love of sport with an educational program specifically tailored to her interests. Once she discovered kinesiology–a term and field of study she had never heard before–it not only ignited a passion for learning, it set her on a path toward a fulfilling career.

Now graduating with a combined bachelor of kinesiology and bachelor of education, she is continuing to coach while exploring her options in sports education.

Congratulations Edan!

What inspired you to choose your KSR program?

I chose KSR (Kinesiology, Sport and Recreation) because, similar to many of my peers in school, I grew up with and participated in sport and recreation my entire life. Growing up, I didn’t consider there was a way to study and stay involved in the sporting world, so learning that the U of A offered an incredible program was life-changing. I also had never heard the term “kinesiology” until I began registering for the program. Diving into that academic world once I got to school created a passion for learning I had never experienced before!

What’s one defining moment or experience at KSR that changed your perspective or path?

A defining moment during my time in KSR was my very first midterm. It was October of 2020, my KIN 100 - Human Anatomy class was online, and I was attempting to learn the intricacies of the human body through a screen with no hands-on experience. Unfortunately for kinesthetic learners like myself, this did not go well. I remember receiving my grade and feeling a pit in my stomach with how poorly I had done. However, this completely altered my skills as a student and a person. I learned how to study better on my own; I learned how to ask for help and what to ask to ensure I would understand. It made me recognize that I had so much more to offer, and I was willing to do anything to prove that — not to my professors but to myself. After that year, I went on to receive three Academic All-Canadian Awards while playing Pandas volleyball. I am incredibly proud of my time in KSR.

What advice would you share with future KSR students?

Take everything as a learning opportunity and remember that grades do not define your worth. It is incredibly important to work hard, go to class and put time into studying — you are the future coaches, athletic therapists, doctors and so much more in our world. However, there may be times you are not as successful as you wish to be, but it is in your control to change that and improve. And truly remember that one bad grade does not define your worth!

What are your plans post-graduation?

I have moved to Vancouver Island, where I will be pursuing a career in education, hopefully teaching sports performance and phys-ed, while coaching school and club teams.