EPISODE 04 – RYAN DAWSON

When I think of spotlight, I think of Ryan Dawson. He knows literally every single person ever in the 2km radius of the ghetto. And if you didn’t know him, now you know. Walking anywhere with him is an absolute disaster. Running into his friend from Econometrics (which apparently is hell), then his friend from highschool, his TA from first year, and the girl from cogro that made his latte this morning--all in the walk between the ARC and JDUC.

But it's no surprise that he knows so many people, Ryan is one of the most interesting humans I know. Not often do you hear about someone who got stuck for 5 hours and held in immigration between the border of Hong Kong and Mainland China or stories of people meeting President Gorbachev (former president of the former Soviet Union….casual). A full time Econ major and part time superstar, Ryan’s charismatic personality and crazy stories will definitely put a smile on your face!

How is it possible that you know so many people on campus?

Be friendly and smile! It doesn’t take much to extend your hand and say “Hi my name is…”

What do you do at Queen’s?

I’ve had the opportunity to engage with several different organizations and groups that I am passionate about during my time at Queen’s. One initiative very near and dear to my heart is equity in the political sphere. My engagement with Queen’s Female Leadership in Politics Conference over the past three years has allowed me to work on a fantastic team to normalize and promote female leadership. I’ve also participated actively in Queen’s Model Parliament and Co-Chair Queen’s Model United Nations last year, two conferences I could not recommend more. Dancing with QDC and Vogue Charity Fashion Show has helped keep my mental and physical health in check as dancing is one of my life passions. Finally this past year I have engaged with the school of business on the Q+ executive team to provide professional development opportunities for LGBTQ+ individuals. Q+ allows me to put my organizational skills to action to help make a positive difference for our Queen’s community. For me, although I am passionate about academia, it was not the reason I chose Queen’s - I came because of the incredible opportunities to get involved and observe a positive tangible effect on the community.

What is the #1 thing on your bucket list right now?

Wine tour in South Africa tied with roadtrip through New Zealand (Which I have planned for April with Miki!).

Ryan you are my Queen and I can’t wait for our crazy adventures next year! Keep rockin’ and rollin’!