Who is Alex Cournoyer?
Hailing from Portsmouth, Rhode Island (about 45 minutes South of Boston, MA), I have been blessed with a multitude of experiences in my life however few are as important to me as family. Though my immediate family is quite small, consisting of my father Alex, my mother Mary, and my sister Eily, my extended family is nothing short of chaotic. Consisting of over 40 first cousins alone, my generation is by far the biggest of our family. Our Portuguese heritage guarantees that all reunions consist of delicious food, numerous games, and no shortage of raised voices.Three years ago, I made the decision to move away from my wild and loving family, a job I loved, and all of my closest friends, and fly half way across the country to pursue my academic studies in Elementary Education and Special Education at the University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota. Since arriving from the East Coast I have learned a few things. The first important lesson that the University of Mary has taught me is that it can always get colder. The second and more serious lesson which I found here is that the key to personal growth is the environment in which you choose to place yourself. Before arriving at the University of Mary I was not truly prepared for what I was about to experience. Since my arrival I have been able to immerse myself into my Catholic faith as well as create a network of individuals who hold me accountable and continue to help me on the path to becoming the best man, educator, and individual that I can be.