Student Impact
Anjali Singh couldn’t quite understand why she completed tasks, including studying for exams, so differently than her friends. “I felt insecure,” said the arts and humanities major. “I think I had a bit of imposter syndrome and I often compared myself to my peers. I thought because I was doing things differently, it meant I was doing them wrong.”
For Anjali to become successful at university her thinking needed to shift, and thankfully it did after attending a strengths-based program funded by the Parr Centre for Thriving.
For a student to feel successful, they need to feel supported,” said Sara Wills, who has worked with the Parr Centre since it was founded in 2020. “The Parr Centre provides opportunities and access for students to focus on and learn about their whole self, including essential elements of well-being and resources that can support their success.”
One of the initiatives funded by the Parr Centre, and the program Anjali completed, uses the CliftonStrengths® tool to help students understand when they are at their best, and how to apply their natural talents in any situation.
“I would recommend this program to everyone,” Anjali said. “After I did a session, it’s like a lightbulb went off. It was so affirming. I finally understood the way I am, and why it’s perfectly fine to be different since we all have our unique strengths.”
“I was nervous coming into university the first year, like most students. There is a lot of comparison and doubt that can come into play and the program helped me work past that. I was able to understand what I’m good at and focus on developing those skills instead of fixating on my weaknesses. I honestly feel it has made me stronger in the world.”
