Reflecting on the Pathway Podcast

Amidst a global pandemic I wanted to find a new way to tell stories about a community that had been spread throughout the city, across the country and around the world. When we launched the Carleton Pathway Podcast 19 weeks ago I was hoping that we would be able find guests and produce a show that people enjoyed.

As we wrap season one we’re fortunate to have met with 21 amazing guests in 19 episodes. And, we’re already building out a great list of potential guests for a second season this fall!

Through it all the Carleton community has reminded me of what drew me here in 2006, an overwhelming sense of unity. The summer of 2020 has been hard, we’ve learned about social and physical distancing, been introduced to social bubbles, and transitioned through phases of reopening.

Life as we knew it might never be the same. But that’s the thing I’ve learned in season one, our lives aren’t a constant. And we never got anywhere by standing still.

The past six months have been a time of change. The world has finally started to have hard conversations about racism and injustice, elder care and public housing, health care and mental health. But through it all we’re growing.

Of the 21 guests to join the show in season one, not one failed to identify their weakness as a first year. Between them, they identified with all five of our Student Success Pillars – Academics, Finances, Employability, Campus Life and Wellness – a sign that we’re all a little different, but we all have room to grow.

As the fall term starts virtually, I’ll be continuing to look for ways to grow, taking advantage of LinkedIn learning, webinars and workshops while I explore my own employability ten years after I graduated. I encourage you to do the same, whether it’s an act of reflection, where you ask yourself the pathways question, or discovery, by exploring the services on the Current Students website or spending some time reading Pathways to Graduation. Make the most of your term without a commute, engage in self-care and personal development.

As for the podcast, we’ll be back this fall with more incredible guests and I hope you’ll continue to join us.