Louisa Cassidy ‘25 is an alum of many titles; SJS Lifer, University of Toronto volleyball player and, most recently, recipient of the 2025 Governor General’s Bronze Award. In April we welcomed Louisa back to campus to receive the award and to catch up with how life is treating her at the UofT.
With her first year of university under her belt, Louisa shared her reflections on the transition to university and what she’s looking forward to.
First Year Reflections
I had an amazing 13 years at SJS, and after graduating in 2025 I was nervous transitioning from a class of 50 students to one of 500 as I started my first year at the University of Toronto. Looking back, I can see how my time at SJS helped set me up to successfully navigate the challenges I would face in my first year of university—and what a first year it’s been!
Expanding The Universe
One of the reasons that I chose to study at UofT was the flexibility it offered me with my degree. By not having to declare my majors until the start of my second year, I was able to explore a range of subjects outside of my mathematical and physical science stream. The balance of subjects we had to take in the MYP and DP at SJS gave me a good foundation as I jumped into exploring different, more niche disciplines. I especially loved being able to take classes specific to my interests in astronomy and astrophysics.
Set Up for Success
Where my SJS experience really stands out is in the time management skills I developed. Being on the UofT Varsity Volleyball team sends me all over Canada and requires a demanding schedule of practices, training and games. The IB programme prepared me to balance my academics and athletic commitments.
I am grateful to be surrounded by such a close-knit group of strong, kind-hearted women, including some amazing coaches. As a team we are looking forward to next season when UofT will be hosting the U SPORTS Canadian Women’s Volleyball Championships!
Final Thoughts
Moving across the country and forming a new community can be challenging, but what I’ve learned from this experience has been incredible. I have met so many new people from across the world, pushed myself out of my comfort zone, and started to understand who I hope to be and what I truly want to do. I am grateful for the skills that SJS set me up with and I can’t wait to see what is to come in my second year!
