AHT student awarded Governor General's Academic Medal

Being part of the Rustlers Rodeo Team, being able to board her horse on campus and being able to take the lead in labs are the top three highlights of Shelby Robbins’ Lakeland College experience.

“Whenever I needed to, I could ride my horse and that was a big deal for me. But so were the labs,” says Robbins, a member of the Class of 2016 who completed the animal health technology (AHT) program. “I really enjoyed the labs because they were so hands-on. Everything that you learn in class, you actually do in the labs. When I went to apply the skills I learned in school during my practicum, I had that experience already and it was so helpful to have at work.”

Robbins excelled in the AHT program – so much so, that she is the 2016 Governor General’s Academic Medal recipient – which means she has the highest average at Lakeland College. 

“I am very honoured to be recognized with this,” says Robbins, of Daysland, Alta.

From a young age, Robbins wanted to work with animals. Following three semesters at the University of Alberta and some time spent working in a vet clinic, Robbins made her way to Lakeland College to pursue her passion. 

“I went from classes with hundreds of students to smaller ones here. Lakeland instructors took the time to know who we are and I found that they were the best part of this program,” she says. “They were all so supportive and helpful.”

Achieving the highest academic standing was not without its challenges for Robbins  given her extra-curricular activities. Beyond the classroom she was a member of the Rustlers Rodeo Team and a member of the Rodeo Club. Robbins was also a member of the Canadian Intercollegiate Rodeo Association and Alberta Barrel Racing Association.

“It was a lot to juggle but I really enjoyed school,” says Robbins. 

Prior to finishing the AHT program, Robbins completed a six-week practicum at Burwash Equine Services. Working with four veterinarians proved to be a valuable learning opportunity. 

“I really liked it – it didn’t even feel like a practicum,” she says. Now, Robbins is working full-time with Cor Veterinary Services and plans to further her education in equine rehabilitation.

“I gained a lot from Lakeland, not only from class but from being on the rodeo team. I made friends with so many different people and it helped me to gain more experience in everyday life.”

Robbins is the fifth AHT student to receive the Governor General's Academic Medal. 

Established in 1873 by Lord Dufferin, the medal is awarded to the student who graduates with the highest academic standing in a diploma-level post-secondary program. The medal is numbered and engraved with the Crest of the Royal Arms of Canada. Lakeland College has presented this academic medal since 1988.

Photos: Top, Shelby Robbins was presented with the Governor General's Academic medal by Board of Governors Chair Darrel Howell during the afternoon Vermilion campus convocation ceremony. Middle, Robbins shares her medal following convocation on June 3. Bottom, outside of class Robbins competed with the Rustlers Rodeo Team and the Rodeo Club.