The first day of Shad. Amazing. Energetic. Inspiring.
Arriving early I spent the evening in Hedden Hall all by myself wondering what awesome experiences where waiting for me in the next month of my life.
The scene when I emerged in the morning was my first taste of the crazy atmosphere that will continue on for the rest of the month. Music was playing, PA's were dashing around and the welcome sign was up. I was blown away by how most of the staff knew about me, having taken the time to carefully read my application. I knew I was in for a life changing experience with people who would encourage, push, teach and bond with me.
As registration began I met the flood of shads entering the building. It was amazing making such instant connections with people from not only all over Canada but England and Saudi Arabia as well!
We had a introductory banquet with an element that has never occurred before. The Acadia 1999 Shads were having their reunion and joined us for dinner. Giving us the chance to connect and learn about how Shad affected them and what they have done since. Most importantly it showed me in the most amazing way the connections that formed at Shad and how they will never disappear. I can't wait for tomorrow, the day after and every single day, second and moment that I have left in Shad!!!
Andrea Abbott
Shad Valley McMaster University
Hometown: Whitehorse, Yukon Territory
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The 2009 Shad Valley Student Blog
About
This blog shares the personal experiences of participants at Shad Valley 2009 – a different blogger each day. Program content and activities vary from year to year and from campus to campus; we hope our participants’ experiences convey some of the excitement and learnings from July 2009.
"While the events and activities may be scripted, the experience is not. Your reaction to it, the impact it has on you, and the powerful aura of support and passion at every turn is what makes each moment unique. This is what I have to come to find makes Shad so incredible!"
Josh Segeren
Shad Valley Waterloo
Hometown: Chatham, ON
Blog Archive
"Shad Valley is made up of a lifetime’s worth of life-changing activities and experiences, lovingly crammed into one furious, passionate, soul-altering month."
Ben Barrett-Forrest
Shad Valley Carleton
Hometown: Whitehorse, YT
"We know that the good times must come to an end but the bond will remain forever within us despite the distance that separates us."
Susie Pan
Shad Valley Université Laval
Hometown: Guelph, ON