In our latest installment of “Faculty of Arts Staff Spotlights”, where we feature the outstanding members of our Faculty’s administrative and support staff who are responsible for the magic going on behind the scenes, we are introducing our readers to Sandra Lauzon, administrative assistant to Dean Shapiro.Ěý
Read our interview with Sandra:Ěý
Q: Tell us about your background and how you came to join the administrative team at the Dean’s Office.
Sandra: I had a similar position at Desjardins Securities, where I was the Administrative Assistant to the Branch Manager. While I loved my job, I didn’t see myself evolving in a Finance environment since I came from an Arts background. I studied languages and I always enjoyed being in school, including my time at McGill 10 years ago. When I saw this position, I knew this would be an environment I could thrive in. I actually re-enrolled as a Master’s student in German Studies last Fall, so you can catch me on campus either working or going to class!
Q: What’s the most unique part of your job and why?
Sandra: Things move fast in the Dean’s Office and priorities are constantly changing, so I’m always learning and finding new ways of working. With 23 different units, the Faculty of Arts is diverse like no other, which definitely keeps things interesting.
Q: Think about how you’ve impacted your team’s success. How has your role evolved since you joined the team?
Sandra: There was a lot of unknown when I joined the team. The Dean had just started two months before me and many of the processes weren’t documented, so this was actually a great opportunity to shape this role into what we needed it to be. I was lucky to work with a team who trusted me to develop procedures and systems that would help the Dean’s Office be as efficient as possible. There is still a lot to be done, but I’m always looking for ways to put my organizational skills to the test!
Q: What are some hobbies or pastimes you enjoy during your free time?
Sandra: I’m a terrible singer, but I love a good karaoke. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, going on road trips, going to concerts and learning languages. If you’re looking for me on summer weekends, I’m most likely on a camping trip in the middle of the woods!
Q: What are some of your favourite local Montreal spots to visit?
Sandra: I love bike rides along the Lachine canal and stopping at Messorem Bracitorium for a drink. Turbo Haüs and Foufounes Électriques are my go-to venues for concerts, and my favourite restaurants include Yokato Yokabai, McKiernan, Bossa and Café Parvis, to name just a few.
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