Helping At-Risk Youth and Following in Her Brother鈥檚 Footsteps: Meet Peer Mentor Madison Headley
Growing up, CBU student and Peer Mentor, Madison Headley, would often hear stories about Psychology courses at CBU from her brother, Malik. Throughout high school, she thought she wanted to be a pediatric nurse, but her weak stomach made her reconsider. Then one summer, while attending the Tim Hortons Summer Camp, something clicked for Madison; even without becoming a nurse, she could still make a difference in the lives of kids. She decided to follow in her brother’s footsteps and take a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Psychology at CBU.聽
Once her courses began, Madison quickly fell in love with Psychology and learning how the human mind works, with her Developmental Psychology course being a standout. 鈥淚 always knew I wanted to work with kids, especially after hearing some rather unpleasant stories during my time at the camp,鈥� says Madison. 鈥淚 thought about how I would鈥檝e loved to help those kids.鈥� It was then that Madison decided she wanted to impact the lives of at-risk youth by becoming a Social Worker.
In addition to her studies, Madison has taken on the role of Peer Mentor in the Advising Centre for the last two years. She has also worked closely with CBU鈥檚 African Canadian Support Workers, connecting to her family鈥檚 origins in Barbados.聽
All of Madison鈥檚 hard work has been paying off, as she has been the recipient of the Wanda Robson Scholarship twice. This scholarship, named in honour of the late African Nova Scotian spokesperson, Wanda Robson, is awarded annually to a student who consistently showcases high academic achievement and demonstrates exemplary dedication to, and leadership qualities through, African Nova Scotian 福利免费在线看 involvement, student activities or athletics.聽聽聽
鈥淟earning I鈥檇 be the recipient of this award felt so amazing. Wanda has such an incredible legacy and I鈥檓 so proud to represent that,鈥� says Madison. 鈥淭o be recognized for this award is amazing, I was genuinely shocked both times I received it.鈥澛�
Her experiences with a variety of student supports at CBU have made Madison a strong advocate for students taking advantage of what鈥檚 available to them on campus. 鈥淲hen I was in my first year, I silently struggled and didn鈥檛 reach out for help,鈥� she says. 鈥淭o add to that, I recently found out I have dyslexia, which was a bit of an eye-opener. I eventually reached out and quickly realized that I wasn鈥檛 bothering anyone at CBU by asking for support and I would never be judged for my struggles.鈥�
From her studies, volunteer work, the support she鈥檚 received as a student and particularly her roles in the Advising Centre, Madison has learned so much. Whether it鈥檚 through her public speaking skills, active listening or effective communication, Madison is always seeking new ways to better support students at CBU. As she continues with her studies, she intends to remain as helpful as she can be to the CBU 福利免费在线看 through her hard work and dedication to supporting others.聽