Allyson Epp
Graduated from SFU in 2009
Major: Kinesiology
Minor: Biological Sciences
Degrees Received: BSc, BEd
Additional Credentials:
Co-op
Certificate in Health & Fitness Studies
Diploma in Outdoor & Environmental Education
Allyson is currently a Health & Physical Education Teacher.
Biography
Allyson considers herself a physical literacy specialist, yoga instructor, and outdoor enthusiast. She enjoys exploring nature and different types of movement, especially climbing, skiing, yoga and ringette. Sharing knowledge and motivating others to try new things is important to Allyson. She hopes everyone continues to learn, move and play.
QUESTIONS
1) What is your current position? What does a typical work day look like for you?
I'm a Health & Physical Education Teacher at a special needs school in Coquitlam, BC. I work full-time Monday to Friday teaching a variety of high school students physical education and healthy eating. Days are busy creating and implementing innovative curriculum to encourage students to develop physical literacy and enjoy being active, assessing and evaluating the students' progress, and managing education assistants (EAs) and student EAs. As the head PE teacher at my school I'm also in charge of maintaining the PE equipment and collaborating with other teachers to create an effective space for learning.
2) How did your education in BPK influence your career?
BPK has nourished my curiosity for learning about the body and the importance of movement. Being at SFU connected me with like-minded people that guided my journey as a fitness instructor, personal trainer, kinesiologist, physical activity/education specialist with Action Schools! BC, and eventually a school teacher.
3) Who in BPK had an impact on you and why?
Being involved in SFU recreation at the fitness center and as a fitness instructor provided me with a group of inspiring individuals that helped me through undergrad as well as navigate life after university.
4) What is your favourite memory of your time at SFU as an undergraduate?
As I was going back through some pictures I found one of me leading a warm up for the SFU Terry Fox Run to hundreds of students in the convo mall. That was definitely a moment that pushed me outside my comfort zone and nudged me towards where I am today. Never underestimate the power of saying "yes" to new experiences, especially those that challenge you.
5) What advice would you give to today’s BPK student?
The knowledge you gain in BPK is not only going to help you in your future career, but also for understanding yourself more, which makes it invaluable.