Mature student's "life-changing decision" leads to becoming the voice of her class

Leaving her full-time job and coming to King’s as a mature student four years ago was “a life-changing decision,” Alexandria Walker says. That decision has led her to the stage at the 2025 Spring Convocation as a BMOS graduate specializing in Human Resources with a minor in Sociology, and as the class valedictorian.

“I worked hard, made sacrifices, and overcame a lot to earn this degree. I am proud of every step it took to get here,” she says.

While raising two children on her own, Walker was working midnights in a factory. She admits she felt stuck and wanted more for herself and her children. She came back to school to build a better life.

“I chose Human Resources because I care deeply about workplace equity, especially for women. Women deserve balance, opportunity, and respect. My goal is to help shift workplace cultures so women no longer have to choose between a career and a family,” she explains.

Walker says being named valedictorian is “an incredible honour. To be trusted with this moment by the very people I have studied alongside means so much.”

In writing her speech, Walker reflected on the people she had met at King’s. She knows people who came to King’s not just for the degree but for the chance to create change, make meaningful contributions and support those around them. “I wanted the speech to honour that spirit and remind everyone how far we have come, not only in our studies but in who we have become,” Walker says.

As a mature student, Walker wasn’t sure how she would fit in, but was met by welcoming and kind faculty and students. “Never once did I feel like I did not belong. Being treated with respect and empathy reminded me that age does not define your place in a classroom. That is another reason why I am so proud to represent this graduating class,” she says.

Being part of the King’s community shaped every part of Walker’s experience. “It was about being surrounded by people who genuinely cared. I always felt like I belonged here. Whether it was classmates encouraging each other or staff and faculty going out of their way to help, that sense of connection made all the difference. That kind of community is rare, and it is something I will always be grateful for,” she says.

During her fourth year, she lost her father, “one of the hardest things I’ve ever faced.” She knew she had to persevere and make him proud.

Walker is proud not only of her own journey but of that of the entire class. She was deeply inspired by the resilience of her classmates, understanding that she was not alone in needing to balance work, family, mental health, and school issues. “Every student here has faced something, and I want to acknowledge that,” she says.

“Everyone I have met at King’s has a unique story. Many had to fight to be here, to stay here, and to finish strong. It was important to recognize all of that. This is a shared achievement, and I am grateful to speak on behalf of such a resilient, driven, and inspiring group,” she says.

Walker doesn’t think she would have found the same level of care and connection anywhere else, making her experience at King’s truly one of a kind. With small classes came meaningful conversations and strong relationships with both peers and professors.

“The people here, including students, faculty, and staff, genuinely care about every student. Even when there were external challenges or limitations, that never stopped anyone from offering support and making sure we had what we needed to succeed,” she says.

Walker is taking the summer to be with her family. She knows that when the right next step appears, she will be ready.

“That is something my experience at King’s taught me: how to move forward with confidence,” says Walker.

Congratulations, Alexandria, and best of luck in your future endeavours.