Simranpreet served as MSVU’s first Graduate Studies Mount Mentor, helping graduate students navigate campus services. She has also volunteered for a number of student events, including Orientation, SHIFT and Early Advising & Registration. Her passion for food security led her to become the on-campus Soup Kitchen Manager and she led a Food Security Round Table that explored sustainable budget models for student security funds.
As Vice-President, Research and Graduate Student Affairs with the MSVU Students’ Union, she has helped ensure strong graduate student representation on numerous committees. Simranpreet was elected Deputy Chair Person for the National Graduate Caucus of the Canadian Federation of Students, where she has served as an advocate for graduate students across Canada.
In short, Simranpreet has excelled at creating and growing community during her time at MSVU.
Simranpreet will deliver her valedictory address during the spring 2025 convocation on Thursday, May 15 at 2 p.m. You can watch the ceremony via MSVU’s Facebook and YouTube pages. We asked Simranpreet to tell us more about her time at MSVU and what’s next for her. Read on to learn more about Simranpreet.
Hometown: Punjab, India
Degree being awarded: Master of Applied Human Nutrition
Why did you choose to study at MSVU?
I chose the Mount because I’ve always wanted to do something above and beyond. Being the youngest in my family, I’m the first one to move abroad on my own and that felt big. I’ve always loved food, nutritional compositions and understanding how it connects to people. After my bachelor’s degree, I knew I wanted to keep learning. MSVU felt right! It’s also close to water (which I love), had the program I wanted and that just gave me a good feeling. And honestly, I already see myself coming back here, double master’s? PhD? Who knows! (Haha) I just love it here that much.
Who are your academic and research mentors (either at MSVU or beyond)?
Over the past two years, every professor at the Mount has shaped me into who I am today. But I have to mention Dr. Phillip Joy and Dr. Deborah Norris. Their classes lit a fire in me; I’m always excited to show up, learn and grow. And a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Janice Keefe and Pamela Fancey from the Nova Scotia Centre on Aging for being my mentors, my anchors who always made me feel at home while I’m away from home. I’ve been so lucky to work under their guidance.
What class, professor, project or learning activity held the most meaning for you? Why?
Hands down, working as the Soup Kitchen Manager was the most meaningful part of my time at MSVU. I had the joy of cooking with amazing volunteers, exploring cuisines from around the world and sharing meals with students and staff. But it wasn’t just about the food, it was about community. It was a journey of learning, cultural appreciation, kindness, compassion and altruism. I’m incredibly proud to have been part of this initiative at such a compassionate and forward-thinking institution, MSVU!
What is your favourite location on campus and why?
Oh! It’s difficult to pick just one. I feel like I’ve left my footprints all over this campus. But if I had to choose, it would be the quiet study benches on the fourth floor of the McCain Centre that overlook the magnificent Bedford Basin. There’s something so calming about that spot, the water, the light, the stillness – it kept me motivated and at the same time grounded through the chaos around. You’d also catch me at the Crow’s Nest, the Rook or even just pacing around McCain’s hallways with my coffee from Seton Café (my unofficial second home, ha-ha). These weren’t just my spots to sit and work, they became part of my routine, part of me. I think that’s what made them special.
Do you have any favourite stories about your time at MSVU?
I have many memories at MSVU, one of the best happened while I was a day camp leader during the summer. Playing with the kids every day brought me such joy; they kept me grounded and reminded me of how beautiful every little moment can be. There is one particular one that is close to my heart, this one little girl would everyday build a tiny fort out of mats just before her dad came to pick her up. Every day, she’d hide behind the fort and wait for him to find her and every time he would act surprised like it was the first time. It was their sweet little ritual. It reminded me of my childhood – how I used to hide when I heard my dad coming up the stairs, just to feel the same joy of being found. That memory brought tears to my eyes. And in that moment, my dad had called me within a few minutes. It’s a moment I’ll never forget.
What do you think differentiates MSVU from other post-secondary institutions?
The Mount has a heart. It’s not just about academics, it’s about people. Here, everyone genuinely wants to see you and help you succeed. I always felt supported by professors, staff and peers. The environment here is extraordinary. Plus, where else do you see deer walking across campus?!
Do you have any advice for others considering going to MSVU?
Don’t hold yourself back. Apply for that role, join that club, show up to that event, even if you’re scared, unsure and uncertain. I’ve learned that some of the greatest gifts come wrapped in hesitation. As an international student, I know how overwhelming it can feel in the beginning. But trust me, MSVU has so much to offer. Make use of every resource, it’s all for you. Talk to the people. Ask questions. Volunteer. Even the smallest seed can grow into a mighty tree. And remember, there’s no such thing as a silly question. Be curious, be open and never shrink yourself to fit it. You deserve to be here. MSVU has opportunities waiting, you just have to say yes to them!
What will you miss most about your time at MSVU?
Everything! From the packed days to the midnight study grinds, the shared jokes between classes and the whirlwind of keeping it all together I’m going to miss it all. I’ll miss my daily coffee runs to Seton, seeing the familiar faces in every corner and the spontaneous heart-to-hearts that somehow made the tough days easier. More than anything, I’ll miss the feeling of belonging, the little MSVU bubble where I was constantly learning, growing and evolving. It wasn’t always easy, but it was mine. And I’m leaving with these memories, lessons and friendships that will stay with me forever.
If you could share just one piece of advice with your pre-Mount self, what would it be?
Dear past me: you’re going to be okay. Actually, more than okay. Keep being bold. Talk to people. Say yes to new things, even if they seem scary. There will be tough days, but you’ll grow through them. You’ll find your people. And you’ll look back and smile. Trust me. And when it gets hard, remind yourself: you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
One of my proudest moments was being elected the National Graduate Caucus Deputy Chairperson for the Canadian Federation of Students. I got the chance to represent graduate students from across Canada, and shared the table with dignitaries, where real change happens. I remember meeting Senator Jane Cordy at a national conference, sharing the challenges we face around mental health supports, graduate funding and health insurance. That moment made me feel like my voice mattered. I’m also proud of the work I’ve done in university space and being on Senate, AERC, GSPPC, SCOLA and other committees. These were more than just titles; they were platforms to speak up, to represent and to make sure my fellow students were heard. I became their voice. That’s something I’ll always carry with me.
What does being named valedictorian mean to you?
To be chosen as valedictorian, to represent our class, is one of the greatest honours of my life. It’s a moment I’ll treasure forever, and I hope I do justice to the incredible stories of resilience and strength that each one of us carries. Being a valedictorian isn’t just about grades, it’s about perseverance, late nights, growth and the very journey that led here. It’s a symbol of dedication, resilience and passion. So, when I got the news, I cried. I was absolutely floored. I smiled so hard that my cheeks hurt.
What’s next for you?
I’m letting my life unfold. I know my passion lies in studying human aging, food and nutrition and want to keep exploring them. I know in my heart I might return to the Mount; this place is my second home. And wherever I go, I’ll carry the Mount’s spirit with me.