Siobhan Kelly
Dual Degree in Ivey and SASAH (School for Advanced Studies in Arts and Humanities)
First Year
Hometown: Whitby, Ontario
What made you want to come to Western?
Western was not really a school on my radar until senior year when my friends in upper years raved about the amazing energy on campus. After one look at their website, I was hooked: specialty programs like SASAH and Scholar’s Electives along with an Ivey dual degree suddenly became the dream! As someone who loves art, English, entrepreneurship and philosophy I couldn’t ask for a better opportunity. Additionally, something that definitely appealed to me was the good balance between academics and social life. I felt like the Western atmosphere would be one where I could improve myself academically while also meeting tons of new people and having loads of fun!
In all my interviews and applications, I didn’t feel like just a number. Professors were so nice and really interested in what I had to say: I already felt accepted as a Mustang. Not to mention their speedy response time, undergrad supports, simple application process… just everything!
What is your current plan for your education?
I am having so much fun in all my classes; though I’m still getting settled into life on campus, I’m looking forward to club week and exploring more of London. Right now, I am setting myself up to major in Social and Political Thought through King's College come second year. I’ve also been trying to get ahead on my essays, course notes and readings. I hope to manage SASAH, an Ivey dual degree and a second major all in the span of 5 years, which will undoubtedly be a huge challenge! Luckily, I know I am surrounded with supportive friends and faculty that will help me maneuver this feat.
Do you have future career goals in mind after your degree?
I have no idea what my future holds, but I could definitely see myself as a prominent businesswoman leading a Canadian NGO that serves to help the community. I love to volunteer, and I currently devote most of my time outside of school to running a federally-registered non-profit organization called ‘A Teen Perspective.’ I am a large advocate for accessible, progressive education, fighting period poverty and dismantling the patriarchy. I am confident in my purpose, and as cliché as it sounds, I want to play an active part in making the world a better place. What that means for my Western undergrad… I’m not sure yet!
How are your classes so far?
Particularly, I love my SASAH lectures. Being in a tight-knit community of students who think like you is so exciting. I have already begun to make meaningful connections with people while bonding over homework and having profound class discussions. Also, we are very privileged to be learning in the most beautiful building on campus: the University College. My professors all possess an extreme wealth of knowledge, and I just feel so lucky to be learning from them.
