Convocation Spotlight: Andy Deprato
Kyle Ireland - 13 June 2023
Andy Deprato
Andy Deprato is graduating with a bachelor of science in kinesiology and a research certificate in kinesiology from the Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation. Deprato has won 14 scholarships and awards and maintained a high grade point average, landing him on the Dean’s list every year of his Kinesiology program. He is the 2023 recipient of the KSR Alumni Medal in Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation, and the University of Alberta’s Governor General's Silver Medal.
Beyond success in his studies, Deprato is also a published researcher, demonstrating a dedication to furthering the field of kinesiology.
Deprato has also dedicated time as a volunteer with the Steadward Centre for Personal & Physical Achievement and Make-A-Wish Canada. It is this commitment to supporting communities that Deprato plans to continue as he pursues studies in medicine.
What initially drew you to kinesiology?
I was interested in the opportunity to combine my interests and experiences in physiology, sport, recreation and health promotion through the interdisciplinary and multidimensional approach the BScKin program takes. The Faculty of KSR also has a lot of opportunities to get involved in interesting research, volunteering and other options!
What achievement, accomplishment or moment are you most proud of from your time in the program?
Although it’s difficult to choose, getting involved in research allowed me to apply my studies and collaborate with physicians, researchers and professors to publish on the benefits of preoperative exercise, lung-function testing and other topics. It is exciting to be able to make academic contributions and advocate for health-care improvements through research!
What was the biggest challenge you faced?
It can certainly be difficult at times to balance studies, extracurriculars, work and other activities and not become consumed by them. I found it really helpful to choose activities that I genuinely found interesting, be well organized so I could dedicate an appropriate amount of time to everything, and to take plenty of breaks!
How did you stay motivated and who helped you keep going when things got tough?
It was important for me to have a strong support network, be well organized between my different commitments, and make sure I planned to take breaks. Choosing activities or courses that I genuinely found interesting and enjoyed was critical for motivation and making sure I took the most out of the things I was doing!
What advice would you give to a student thinking of entering this program?
Be as involved as possible, whether that be in research, volunteering, clubs or other activities. Try your best to learn about your interests, strengths and areas for improvement so that you can be intentional with your involvement to develop as a person while enjoying the process as much as possible!
What have you learned about yourself, and how will you use this going forward?
I have learned about what interests me, what my strengths are, and how to continuously improve myself by seeking out new opportunities and experiences. I appreciate the importance of being intentional and reflective with my involvement to make the most out of my activities and studies.
What comes next for you in your academic journey?
I am excited to be starting medical school at McMaster University this August, where I will have the opportunity to apply my experiences, interests and studies!