Have you met Kelly Hobson, Mentorship Coordinator for Peter Lougheed Leadership College? Spend a few minutes getting to know them a little better.
What is the most important part of your home office set up?
Definitely the natural light! In the early months of working from home, I had a view of the river valley from my apartment, which was fantastic. I could see most of the U of A campus when I looked out the window by my desk - every so often I waved at my office in Peter Lougheed Hall! I've since moved into a house, and while I don't see campus anymore, I still love having a window in my office.
What's something you've done to help make the shift to working remotely easier?
Taking frequent, short breaks. Whenever I've been sitting for a while I get up and deal a game of solitaire (with a real deck of cards), stretch out with a couple of yoga poses, or play a song on my guitar. Working from home I have fewer reasons to get up, so I have to intentionally build movement into my routine.
What's your favourite drink, meal, or snack to enjoy while working from home?
My mom's side of the family is from Nova Scotia, and my parents are back in Ontario, so I've been using food to reconnect with family lately. Right now I'm big on fish - I've learned how to make a mean tartar sauce. I'm also partial to Ben & Jerry's ice cream!
What is your first U of A memory?
Years ago, long before I worked or studied here, I dropped a friend off at north campus. It was my first time ever seeing the University of Alberta, and I can remember how regal some of the buildings looked. I've been a student and employee at several universities across Canada, and I think the U of A has the most beautiful campus.
What is your favourite distraction?
I'm an aspiring dog owner, so I love cute pictures or videos of puppies. But lately my partner and I have been using TV to mark the end of the week: every Friday we watch RuPaul's Drag Race.
What is a weird pet peeve that you have?
I can't stand a poorly framed photo!
What is something you'd tell your 18-year-old self?
Oh gosh, so many things. But I guess the big one is that if you show people who you really are they'll love you because of that, not in spite of it.
What is the most boring thing about you?
I drink my coffee from the same mug every morning. (It's a Gryffindor mug, so hopefully that's redeeming!)
If you were to enroll in a course or program right now, what would it be?
I'm doing my MBA part-time right now! But if I could take any course out of pure interest, I would take a voice seminar through the drama department.
If you could see any live performance tomorrow, who would you like to see?
Adele - hands down, no questions asked. I've seen her live a couple of times, and nothing compares.
What three words would you use to describe your U of A experience?
Dynamic, collaborative, and uplifting.
By day, Kelly Hobson facilitates a mentorship program at the Peter Lougheed Leadership College. By night, Kelly studies business at the U of A. Kelly is a self-taught guitarist, an avid outdoorsperson, and an aspiring dog owner.