Monsignor McCoy High School class valedictorian Jaida Wald poses in front of the high school. Wald says she wants to make a positive impact on the environment and plans to work toward her bachelor of environmental science from Mount Royal University.--SUPPLIED PHOTO
bmiller@medicinehatnews.com
This year’s class valedictorian at Monsignor McCoy High School, Jaida Waldegger, wants to make a positive impact on the environment, perhaps working with animals or testing soil and consulting with local producers, but that requires first a move to Calgary to attend Mount Royal University.
Academically, Waldegger describes herself as somewhat of a late bloomer, and says she was not expecting to receive the honour of valedictorian. The graduate says it wasn’t until high school she began to take her school work more seriously and develop an interest in science, biology and calculus.
“I kind of enjoyed my classes more and that just kind of helped,” said Waldegger, who describes some of her favourite teachers, including Mr. Shemko, whom she credits as sparking her passion for math and science.
“I have a really good calculus teacher, I have quite a bit of teachers that I like.”
Waldegger says she has grown more curious about biology in the world and developed familiarity with complex math equations that have become “natural” to her during her high school career.
The graduate, born and raised in Medicine Hat, says her family, especially her parents, have been a source of motivation throughout school and post-secondary activities such as volleyball and softball.
“They’ve just always been there and helped me and supported me,” says Waldegger.
Wald also credits the competitive nature of her older sibling who is currently studying engineering in Edmonton.
“She’s really competitive and she’s super smart.”
This summer Waldegger will be moving into residence at Mount Royal University to begin a four-year Bachelor of Environmental Science program that can open career possibilities like resource manager, soil scientist or environmental consultant.
“I just always liked biology and it has always seemed like something I’d be interested in, so I think I’ll really enjoy it,” explains Waldegger. “I think there’s quite a variety of things you can do, you can kind of specialize in animals or you can do stuff like soil or air quality and consulting.”
Waldegger expects she will have a better idea of any future career aspirations after attending the program and receiving her Bachelor of Science.
Until then, Waldegger says she is slightly nervous about moving away from home for the first time.
“It’s scary, but I do like having independence, so I feel like I’m going to enjoy it,” she says, adding she is grateful to be attending MRU with her best friend.
“We’re living in ‘res’ with two other roommates.”
Looking back on her time in high school Wald says her best memories were made with her friends, and she will always look back at student gatherings, including her graduation party.
The Class of 2025 walked the stage for the graduation mass and ceremony on May 22 held at the Cypress Centre, where Waldegger spoke to her fellow classmates during her valedictorian speech.
“I spoke a lot about my teachers, because I really liked them and quite a bit about my family. Then I just gave some advice about following your heart and doing what makes you happy in the future.”
