I’ve been a Lethbridge Polytechnic employee for three and a half years, and in that short amount of time, I’ve discovered a lot of things – about the campus community, our academic programs, student services and the sheer number of amazing learning tools and opportunities offered here.
What I didn’t know much about, until now, is how utilized the campus is after hours – and not just by students but by members of our broader community.
When I was a Communication Arts – Broadcast Journalism student two decades ago, my evenings were spent on the third floor of the Technologies Building trying my best to edit that week’s news story before deadline, occasionally operating a camera in the gym for Kodiaks volleyball, or (let’s be honest) in The Barn for Tequila Tuesday or any number of theme nights happening there. I certainly was not in tune with all the other activities going on around me.
But, in the spirit of “better late than never,” I can honestly say, my eyes are open. Doing research for this issue’s Polytech After Dark photo essay (p. 12) led me to so many interesting groups that visit campus after most folks have gone home for the night. Of course, there are always late-night studiers, the polytechnic’s wonderful Caretaking team hard at work, and Kodiaks practices and games, but there are also quilters, writers, people learning chess and playing disc golf, a UFO club, a cinema club, occasionally a Mixed Martial Arts event, and plenty more. Our photographers could only capture so many happenings for the feature, but trust me when I tell you, the list is long and diverse.
Looking back, I wish I had taken the time to step outside of my comfort zone and explore more of what campus had to offer 20 years ago, when I first had the opportunity, or in the years that followed.
Seeing these groups in action, and hearing about plenty of others, also has me thinking differently about the polytechnic I thought I had gotten to know over the past few years. At the end of the day, this collection of buildings is a hub for learning of all kinds, not just by students in traditional programs working toward a credential. It’s a place where people of all ages and backgrounds come to explore their interests, build skills and connect with others.
So, whether you’re a student, an alum, an employee or a community member, I encourage you to consider the space and opportunity Lethbridge Polytechnic provides. There might just be a new skill to learn, a group to join or a hidden corner of this campus you’ve never explored – after hours or otherwise.
Thanks for reading, and I hope you enjoy this issue. If you have any stories of after-hours clubs, activities or events you’d like to share, feel free to email me at WHMagazine@lethpolytech.ca.
