I was born in Kingston, Nova Scotia, growing up with two brothers in a lively military family. Due to my father’s military career, we embarked on a series of exciting moves, including memorable stays in Washington state and Colorado within the United States. Throughout my childhood, I immersed myself in the world of hockey, playing the sport passionately across the world Canada and ending my last year in Washington State. My love for hockey infused me to one day have a career as a hockey analyst.
After completing high school, I enrolled in Television Broadcasting and Video Production at Canadore College in North Bay Ontario. Over the course of two years, I learned the skills of the industry, in camera operation, editing, and storytelling. It was during this time that I was sharing a dorm with my roommate Victor who moved to North Bay from Switzerland. Our love for hockey, food, and goofing off created a long-lasting friendship.
As my second year at college neared its end, an unexpected turn of events disrupted our lives worldwide: the COVID-19 pandemic. Like countless others, I found myself navigating the challenges posed by the global health crisis. With the early conclusion of my academic year, I faced uncertainties about the future. In search of stability, I took a job at Walmart to help get by while living with friends as we struggled to figure out what was next. Following two years of working at Walmart, I found myself unsure of the next steps in my life. While many of my friends seemed to have a clear direction, and embarking on new careers, I felt a sense of confusion and uncertainty. Determined to make a change, I made the difficult decision to leave my friends and girlfriend behind in Ontario and move back home to Nova Scotia, where I could explore new opportunities.
I stumbled upon the Radio and Television Journalism program at NSCC and made a spontaneous enrollment decision. Despite joining at the last minute, I threw myself into the coursework doing my best. Now, as I wrap up my first year, I can proudly say that I feel a renewed sense of accomplishment and purpose. Looking ahead, I envision returning to Ontario after completing my education, aspiring to start a career in sports journalism, bringing me closer to my friends and my girlfriend.
As my internship at Hello Dartmouth ends, I am happy to say I learned a lot this past month and expanded my knowledge on what it takes to be a journalist. As I start my summer vacation, I’m excited to continue my job at Sobeys and enjoy time with my family camping, watching Star Wars, building Lego’s, visiting friends, and eating hot dogs with my girlfriend.
Editor: Hello Dartmouth wants to thank Curtis for all his hard work this past month and wishes him well on his education journey! ~ Frank Orlando