Crys Vincent is a Councillor in the Athabasca University Graduate Students’ Association. Here we get to know some more about one of our fabulous graduate student councillors. This interview was conducted in mid-May.
What brought you to AU and the AUGSA?
Well, I guess I am a bit of a nerd, but I read all the emails that come from the AUGSA, so I’ve been getting to know the community and ways to get involved through the President’s emails and the newsletters since becoming an AU student.
My first interaction was when the announcement around changes to tuition payment came down. I emailed the council about my concerns around these changes. I was really impressed as I received a response right away and with the follow up that took place. I really felt like my voice was heard and by sharing my thoughts as a student I was contributing to the greater community.
What is the last book you read?
I’m a huge reader actually, and the Big Book Sale by Calgary Reads was just a few weeks ago, so I have a tower of novels by my bed 🙂 I’m currently reading a novel (Middle C by William H. Gass), something for work (The Contrarian’s Guide to Leadership by Steven Sample), and something for personal growth (The Happiness Trap by Russ Harris). Oh, and my text book, haha!
What show do you think everyone should binge watch?
I’m not a huge tv watcher, but I can definitely appreciate a really well-crafted miniseries or show. The Handmaid’s Tale is every bit as good as the critics said it was (Season 1 anyway, I hadn’t started Season 2), although I wouldn’t recommend binge watching it. The artistry and provocative questions the show makes you ask yourself is better digested with breaks in between. American Crime is also fantastic—I love the depth of the characters and the actors who switch roles every season is amazing!
Why did you choose to run for AUGSA council?
I believe in the process; I believe that invested students can make their school better. I think that AU wants to have student voices at the table and I want to honour that by taking up the challenge. I also think that through my interactions with the council I will feel more connected to my university’s culture and have an opportunity to learn from student leaders and faculty who serve the committee.
What are your academic goals for 2018?
Oh wow. Well, honestly? I am 6.5 months pregnant right now, I have August off from my program, and we are due August 6th. So my goals are around successfully maintaining good work in my program while balancing this new challenge! I am also looking forward to solidifying my practicum for September 2019, I am really looking forward to that!
If you could have a meal with someone from history, who would it be?
I am fascinated with Jeanne d’Arc (Joan of Arc). I’ve always had a fascination with her story. I would be so interested to hear her share her narrative. I think I could learn something from her incredible faith in the unseen.
What is one thing you would like to complete personally in 2018?
I hope to be a good mama.
Since being elected, what are your hopes for the 2018-2020 term?
I have joined the Strategic Planning Committee so I am really excited to be a part of visualizing how the last council’s work can be operationalized and how the new strategic plan will impact the AU culture. I also would like to see if we can’t find ways to engage students more, whether through increase communication, use of technology, or social events. My big picture goal would be that AU students feel more connected to their school’s culture and feel a sense of belonging as an AU student.