As an alumnus of both the diploma and degree programs, thanks to Langara’s Recreation Department, I unlocked a high level of self-confidence I never knew I had. All of the instructors, class sizes, experiential learning, flexibility, and sense of community played massive roles in my personal and professional development.
Professionally, this led to me working several jobs in both municipal and non-profit recreation. I have taken great pride in being an instructor, youth worker, coordinator, recreation leader, support worker, and more for the Cities of Richmond, New Westminster, and Vancouver, as well as Canucks Autism Network. I also found the confidence to teach in both Costa Rica and Thailand, go backpacking by myself, and participate in organized sporting events that pushed me to my limits physically and mentally (Whistler Gran Fondo and the Ride to Conquer Cancer).
To me, recreation is about pursuing one’s passions to live a higher quality of life. While I do this personally with my recreation (cycling, Muay Thai, and boxing to name a few), professionally, I decided to go back to school to become a teacher. If not for the roads I took in my recreation career, I would not be where I am today as an elementary school teacher in my hometown, taking great pride in being a caring adult and champion for my students. Furthermore, I now find myself embarking on my next adventure as I pack up my life here in the Vancouver area and move to Montreal to continue pursuing my passions in life.
I am incredibly grateful for my time spent in Langara’s recreation diploma and degree programs. This has led to me giving back to the department in many roles since 2014. If you are reading this, please do feel free to reach out to me with any questions or concerns about either of the programs. Whatever you choose to do, I will do my best to support you!
Contact: matthewbains92 [at] gmail.com (matthewbains92[at]gmail[dot]com)
