For Kevin Fernandes, success is all about finding the right balance and making meaningful connections in life.
The Mississauga, Ont. native, who is graduating with his Juris Doctor degree was drawn to the East Coast because of Dal’s reputation and its business law courses, but it’s been the sense of community that’s made the largest impact.
“The people are incredibly warm. I know everyone by name, and they know something about me. I’m not just some sort of number,” he says. “The alumni connections here are just amazing. I’ve never met an alumnus who doesn’t want to grab a coffee and make sure you’re doing all right.”
Kevin has worked hard to get involved and help foster that sense of community. During his time at the Schulich School of Law, he has mentored other students, given tours to prospective students and been involved in committees and groups including the Domus Legis society. He’s organized events to connect students and alumni and bridged his love for hockey and law by organizing the alumni and professors versus graduating students hockey game.
It was hockey that helped Kevin in law school. “In hockey, it’s one shift, put in your time, move on to the next thing. Don’t dwell on something. You can have a turnover, lose the puck, not a big deal.” And it’s this thinking that he’s applied to his studies and life. “You’ll lose the moments that matter if you don’t pay attention to them.”
He is looking forward to articling in a law firm in Hamilton after he graduates, but says he is focusing on more than just jumping into professional life. Kevin wants to continue giving back as an alumnus.
“I know I want to be involved in this school in the future,” he says “There is something about the community here that I don’t want to lose.”
This article is part of our series of profiles on the graduates of the Class of 2015. These profiles are also published in the Convocation Keepsake which is distributed at Convocation ceremonies. For more information (including live webcasts), visit the Convocation website.