Department Spotlight: Kayla Walter-Connoy
The Department of Family Medicine would like to introduce Kayla Walter-Connoy in the role of Postgrad Finance & Evaluation Program Coordinator. Kayla joined the Department and the PG Team in January.
What do you most enjoy about your role in the Department?
Right now what I enjoy most is the challenge, and that I get to learn new things. I really like jobs that allow me to build on my current skillset, and not get too stagnant. I also love event planning, so getting to work on graduation is really enjoyable.
What’s been your most memorable experience while working in the Department?
Probably meeting everyone and being welcomed in by such an open and friendly group of people. As I’ve only been here a month I haven’t had any big, memorable experiences yet, but I’m sure those will come with time.
What’s your greatest accomplishment?
I went to Ireland by myself about 6 years ago, and while there I visited Skellig Michael. I didn’t rent a car, so I had to beg a tour company out of Killarney to agree to take me on half their tour (dropping me off at a restaurant close to the BNB I had booked) one day and the second half (picking me up at the same restaurant) two days later. I wanted to see Skellig Michael so badly, but I’m not the biggest fan of heights. So, climbing the steep, 600 stone steps (built between the sixth to ninth century CE) about 600 feet above sea level was really daunting. On the way down, I had to sit as my legs were shaking so much from the fear, but I managed to make it down. Pushing myself through the fear to see the amazing beehive huts, and beautiful views of the sea, at the top of Skellig was a big achievement for me.
What do you like to do outside of work, how do you enjoy spending your time?
I hang out with my daughter and dogs. I have several dogs, so they, along with a toddler, keep me very busy. I also have started doing agility training with one of my dogs, which I’m really enjoying. I’m a big theatre and comedy person. I’m very fortunate to have a mother who loves looking after her granddaughter. So, I can usually get a day away every two to three months to see a play or comedian I love.
