Day in the Life with Chloe Asselstine (January)

Have you learned anything about yourself or the world this semester?

If you had told me a few years ago that I would live through a global pandemic, let alone complete my first year of university online, I would have told you no way. For years, I spent ample time rushing and hustling to get from one place to another. Then it all came to a screeching halt. Suddenly, I realized I had dreams, hopes, and goals to accomplish. Yet, I wasn’t enjoying the journey I was taking to achieving them.

What were some of the most significant challenges/roadblocks you faced this semester, and how did you overcome them?

I was always taking additional courses in high school to get ahead to build what I called my “academic endurance.” As a result, I experienced a small GPA decrease from high school to university. I was also involved in clubs, networking, and continuing to expand my business while succeeding academically at the same time.

In early October, my mom had a seizure and was admitted to the hospital. She had a tumour in her brain, which was diagnosed as a stage 4 glioblastoma brain cancer. This has been an immense challenge, but DeGroote has helped me stay on track with my studies.

I am trying my best to be positive and set goals. Goals push me forward and allow me to focus on the tasks at hand. I grew my tutoring business and established a plan to donate $4,000 to a charity that increases the odds of surviving brain cancer through research.

Were there any self-revelations you experienced this semester?

Due to the amount of time I have spent in quarantine with my grandmother and immediate family, I had time to personally reflect on the importance of helping those in need during these trying times. I realized that I could be doing more to help those in my community and make social change. My brother, Lucas, and I tried to shop local for our Christmas shopping and made a conscious effort to donate to the Ronald McDonald House in Hamilton, Ontario. After years of shopping solely off Amazon, it was refreshing to have a more personal experience when purchasing from local businesses and make a difference in my community.

What have you been grateful for during these times?

I have been most grateful for my family. Throughout the lockdown, we have bonded and explored new hobbies as a family. It has been great to spend the time we never seemed to have pre-lockdown. My family has explored cross country skiing, hiking, golfing, and learned all about French baking through cookbooks, like my favourite, Poilâne by Apollonia Poilâne.

Chloe Asselstine

McMaster University Bachelor of Commerce Level I
DeGroote School of Business

I have created a successful business, increased community engagement for businesses in the Greater Toronto Area through social media marketing, and volunteered over 1,000 hours within the GTA to help those in need. My work was recently recognized by the Canadian Government as I have been awarded the Lieutenant Governor’s Volunteer Award. I am studying Finance and Accounting at the DeGroote School of Business, with hopes of completing an internship as well as the Accelerated MBA program in the future.