Applying to and choosing a university is an exciting, sometimes daunting, time. From the very beginning, our daughter Tessa was drawn to Bishop’s University because of its unique size, stunning campus location, and academic programs. She welcomed the opportunity to be part of a close-knit community where students get to know their professors and have the opportunity to excel in many ways, not only at Bishop’s, but also in the community. Little did we know how wonderful and diverse her experiences would be.
Tessa arrived at Bishop’s in autumn 2021, in the second year of COVID, for move-in day. We were all a little nervous but very impressed by the warm welcome she received, and we left her to begin her journey. Tessa’s first year was a whirlwind of meeting new friends, playing on the women’s volleyball team, working as a lifeguard and teaching swimming at the sports complex, volunteering with Big Buddies, joining the motionball team, and, of course, going to school. There were all the ups and downs of university life, but she was well supported by Student and Academic services.
We have watched with admiration and excitement as Tessa has made the most of her time at Bishop’s and taken advantage of so many academic, athletic, volunteer, leadership, and employment opportunities. Over her five years, she has worked at the sports complex, as a research assistant with the French department, and as a proud student ambassador. She has been an Orientation Week Team Leader, motionball Event Director, and Co-Lead for BU Outdoors. She has volunteered with Big Buddies and Dixville in addition to being on the SRC.
Some of our favourite moments visiting Tessa at Bishop’s have been watching her perform with the Bishop’s University Singers, marching with her and her fellow students in the Take Back the Night rally for safe streets, hiking in the Eastern Townships, and trying our own singing at Karaoke Night at the Lion. The Bishop’s University Singers are an incredible choir made up of talented students, staff, and community members who perform together making beautiful music, a true testament to the power of community at Bishop’s.
Tessa has been the recipient of the Purple Letter Award, the Club Impact Award (motionball), the Jeff Cannon Memorial Prize, and several bursaries recognizing academic excellence. There is so much to celebrate at Bishop’s! Her passion for education has been fed and nurtured. She has made lifelong friends. From a parent’s point of view, Bishop’s offered Tessa an incredible number of opportunities. She has grown as a person, a leader, and an engaged citizen, and she will graduate ready to be a skilled teacher. As parents, what more could you ask from university for your child?
Thank you, B.U. 💜
Rindy and Tim Bradshaw and our daughter Tessa Bradshaw (B Ed 2026), Toronto, Ontario
