Name: Tori Peterson
Family: Mom Debbie, brother Randy
Profession: Studen in Education - PreK-5 program
Years in Grenfell: 20 (currently living in Regina for university)
Age:20
If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?
Well, that’s an easy one. Disneyland. My grandparents took my mother and her brothers there a few times as children, and randy and I have also been a few times. I just feel so nostalgic and like all of my worries disappear when I’m there.
What is something you did with a grandparent that holds a special place in your heart?
It is something that I still do, but when I’m home from school in the summers and on winter breaks, I’d go to my grandmas almost every day for a coffee. Her and I are like two peas in a pod. We have the greatest conversations. I love her so much. When I am away, we FaceTime and have our coffees.
What do you do to express your creativity?
I show this in many ways now, actually. It used to be just drawing, painting and crafting things (which I still love), but more recently, its been making up activities and worksheets for lesson plans and students. Putting a creative spin on lessons is such a fun and effective way to teach kids. I am so excited to teach a second grade unit on fairytales next semester in my pre-internship and to see how creative that gets!
What was your favorite thing about summer as a kid?
Camping. Even though we only camped at the good old Grenfell Regional Park, it was still fun, being around family and friends, staying up late at campfires. I often reminisce those times.
Who do you look up to?
My mother is the strongest woman I know. Words cannot describe the amount of respect and love I have for this lady. She is supportive, loving, and she always ensures that my priorities are in line. She is truly amazing. When people say, “Oh! You’re Debbie’s daughter.” I blush and smile because I’m so proud to be her daughter.
What is your favorite time of day?
Definitely the evening/nights. Sunsets are amazing on out here. And I am totally a night owl. I focus the best late at night.
Do you play a musical instrument?
You bet. I took piano and singing lessons when I was about 6 or 7. I started concert band in grade 4 on the flute, picked up the guitar in about grade 9, started jazz band on the tenor saxophone in grade 10, and also picked up the piccolo flute around then as well. Since graduating high school, I have picked up the ukulele that my great grandfather used to own and play. That is my favourite instrument.
Who was your favorite teacher in school?
I won’t name any names, but this teacher really cared about their students. They would stay long after school hours to help me when I struggled in their class, they’d check in on me. That teacher and I still chat from time to time about the Education program, as they attended there as well. As I learn more and more about teaching, I have come to appreciate this person.
What’s your favorite board game?
Apples to Apples. It’s such a funny game and a good way to get to know people. My family and I have had many, many laughs playing this game. Now that my cousins are getting old enough to play, I am excited to maybe play it with them this year at Christmas.
What are you looking forward to in the next 10 years?
Wow, there’s a lot to look forward to. I will be 30 by the time 10 years hits. My teaching career will be started, hopefully I’ll be settled down or close to being settled down with someone and starting a family. My brother will be 27, and his career will also be getting started. It’s crazy to think about all this. Our lives will all be so different from where they are today. It is important to embrace every moment of our very short lives.