Part of Something Bigger than Myself

by Emma, Open Circle student

Having taken two years between graduating high school and entering university, and having just exited the lockdown, I could tell there was something missing from my early university life that could only be filled by feeling like I was part of something bigger than myself – by fostering community. I was introduced to Open Circle by a classmate when I asked for resources to help students going through difficult times, and I immediately felt that this was what had been missing from my life. Open Circle helped me navigate those challenges through peer support, reflection, and by reminding me that even though things might not be going well in the moment, there is always something to be grateful for. Thankfully, I’ve moved past that difficult phase with the help of Open Circle, but I feel it’s a privilege to aid those who may be struggling like I was in my first year and help them see it through to the other side. The warmth I felt in those early days of attending Open Circle reflection circles is what keeps me here to this day as a member of the event planning team. I think it’s important to not only pass the torch along, but it’s part of my duty to ensure that the flame stays alive.