Nov 17, 2000
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THE UNIVERSITY OF VICTORIA Nov 17, 2000 |
| While completing her biochemistry degree at UVic, Mary-Jill Hunter has been an integral part of Science Venture, the student-run summer camp that introduces young people to complex science concepts. “Although I love biochemistry, kids are where my passion and talents lie,” says Hunter. “They’re my forté.” Hunter, a 23-year-old native of Powell River, is expanding her involvement with children now that she’s finished her degree. After a rigorous selection process, she’ll be joining the Ailanthus Achievement Centre Ailanthus is a privately funded program based out of East Vancouver that offers, through role models such as Hunter, educational and emotional support to children from abusive backgrounds. “It’s been very tough getting in but I know it’s going to be the most amazing job,” she says. “I’m so excited.” Many of the 18 kids with whom Hunter will now live and work have a very limited education, so along with acting as a positive mentor, it’s Hunter’s task to bring their math and science skills up to speed. “Some kids are getting very good grades but others need a bit of help with their education,” says Hunter. “A lot of it is just about providing them with the confidence to learn.” In addition to her new job, Hunter will maintain a position on the board of directors and as the B.C. representative for Actua, the 27-member nationwide group with which Science Venture works. “It’s great to help with the direction Science Venture is taking,” says Hunter. “It’s a big part of my life and I’m glad to be involved at the national level.” As for the future, Hunter is unsure. She knows that her new career with Ailanthus will be more like a lifestyle than a job and is concentrating on that for now. But she may eventually pursue an engineering degree. “If I do decide to further my studies I’ll be coming back to UVic,” says Hunter. “But it will definitely be a while.” |