Valued Members & Staff

What has your overall experience been like working here?

This job had been an amazing experience. The gym is a positive environment that always brings me joy when I come to work. I love how all the staff come together to help others to do what we all love.

What's your favourite part of your job, and why?

My favourite part of the job is my coworkers and the patrons that come to the gym! I love how every part of the staff is always there for each other during the shifts and when needing a shift covered. The patrons make my job exciting. With their questions I am able to implement the knowledge I have learned through the courses I have taken and through the years working out.

What makes your job meaningful?

I think this job is meaningful because the gym is a safe space for all. I love it when people ask me how to use equipment because I have been in their shoes before and it makes me feel that I am making a positive impact on their life. I’m grateful that this job can allow me to help others.

What has your overall experience been like working here?

Working at the Fitness Centre for nearly the entirety of my undergrad has without a doubt been the best part of my University experience and no question will be what I most when I look back at these years. Over the past 5 years, the Fitness Centre has become a second home I didn't know I needed but, it's not because of the equipment (though it is absolutely fabulous), it's because of the people and the relationships I've built along the way. The community here is so positive and welcoming and the people inspire me to be better every single day when I show up to work, for a workout, or for a NRG class. If I had one piece of advice to any first year who has an interest in fitness, wants to be surrounded by like-minded people and is looking to create more opportunities for themselves, but don't know where to start, I would tell them to get a job at the Fitness Centre immediately.

What's your favourite part of your job, and why?

Without a doubt, the best part about working at the Fitness Centre is the people. By working here, I've created so many meaningful friendships over the years with both co-workers and other students who use space that will last a lifetime. I swear, everyday when I walk up the Fitness Centre I'm bound to have a smile on my face within seconds of being there. Nothing makes me happier than chatting with members, or other co-workers or Lynne or Garrett because I know these people that I've spent countless hours with genuinely care about me and want to see me win the same way I want to see them win. You can really feel the love here.

What makes your job meaningful?

Working at the Fitness Centre has brought an extraordinary amount of meaning into my life. I mean for starters, my employment here has opened so many opportunities I didn't even know I was interested in. For instance, I'm currently finishing up my personal training certification, a status I thought you could only have if you were in Human Kinetics. I also have managed to make my way up to a lead staff position to where I'm involved with a lot more responsibilities such as training staff and being a part of discussions to create new strategies in order to continue to make the Fitness Centre the best it can be. I also got the opportunity to be a part of the social media team, found love for the Gryphon summer camps, got involved with different athletic committees such as AAC (Athletic Advisory Council), MCed the gryphon part-time staff appreciation banquet two times and am currently working in a position for our She's Got Game event! What you put into this job is exactly what you'll get out of it so if you've got a good attitude, the more you go in search for opportunities here, the more they will come to you. English is my degree, but fitness is my passion and working for Gryphon Athletics has really made that passion come to life by providing opportunities that I can take with me far beyond my academic career here at Guelph.

What has your overall experience been like working here?

I've loved working here, everyone has been super friendly and each shift is a fun experience!

What's your favourite part of your job, and why?

My favourite part of my job is being able to socialize with such a wide array of people as a part of my job.

What makes your job meaningful?

I love being able to connect with members of the community. It allows you to support the school while aslo getting paid.

What has your overall experience been like working here?

My experience working at the Guelph Gryphons Athletics Centre (GGAC) has been incredibly positive and a big part of my university life. Over the past two years, I've built strong connections with staff and coworkers, and I've always felt supported and appreciated. The environment is genuinely welcoming, and I've learned so much, from event set-ups and tear-downs to all the unexpected tasks that come with keeping the facility running. I also had the opportunity to join the IEDI Advisory Council for the Department of Athletics, which has been a meaningful way to contribute beyond my current role. Overall, it's been a place where I've grown both personally and professionally.

What has your overall experience been like working here?

It has been a really rewarding experience working in athletics throughout my undergrad. I’ve grown so much both professionally, personally, and enjoyed many opportunities to step up as a student leader that I would never have experienced otherwise.

What's your favourite part of your job, and why?

Working alongside other UofG students! It’s been fun collaborating with my peers and developing close bonds over the years.

What makes your job meaningful?

The people make it the most meaningful! Working alongside my friends and playing a part in making UofG a fun and inclusive community for all students has been super rewarding.

What has your overall experience been like working here?

My experience working with the University of Guelph, Variety Events team has been nothing but incredible. Coming in as a first-year student, I was able to get hands on experience within the sports realm, while also making meaningful connections with both fellow co-workers as well as other staff, parents, and others. My experience has been so positive, with many of my good friends coming from this job. It is a positive environment, where we are all working as a team to meet one goal, which is to create a positive experience for anyone who comes to varsity games. Though this job can be long days, other staff are always willing to lend a hand and make your day better. Overall, my experience working in the Events department has been one of the best decisions I have made, and I will cherish my friendships made here for a long time.

What makes your job meaningful?

This job is meaningful as I am able to connect with those within our community. With so many regular attendees coming to varsity games, you are able to connect with them and build a relationship. I am able to connect with other departments in the athletic field and be able to lead my staff in a positive manner. Working in the events department, I found a different type of love for sports, making me want to learn more about sport and event management for a future job. This job has created so many positive relationships and connections that will be used in the future.

What has your overall experience been like working here?

I have been working in the GGAC for the past 3 years and started off working with Client Services which gave me a look at the behind the scenes of how the wider Athletics Community runs and the services we offer for everyone’s needs and interests. This motivated me to be a part of the Fitness Centre Team that helps people with their fitness journeys at all levels. It has been an amazing experience serving both our Gryphons and Guelph community! I have enjoyed building connections with coworkers, lead staff and managers over the years to continue supporting our members and their growth. The fitness space can be overwhelming and challenging at first and I am grateful to be part of a welcoming and friendly team that aims to make everyone’s first step towards their goals as smooth as possible!

What has your overall experience been like working here?

Working at the Fitness Centre has been a very positive experience for me. Being part of the University of Guelph Athletics team has helped me grow in confidence and leadership. I enjoy supporting members in their fitness journeys and creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable. The team culture is supportive, respectful, and professional, which makes coming to work enjoyable. I’ve learned valuable communication and teamwork skills while improving my own health and fitness knowledge. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a space that promotes well-being and community. It has truly made a difference in my personal and professional growth.

What's your favourite part of your job, and why?

Helping members.

What makes your job meaningful?

Being part of a team.

What has your overall experience been like working here?

The Fitness Centre staff have been my best friends and family over these last few years. Being away from home for school was a tough choice but learning to be myself in a place with so many beautiful people around to support me has really helped shape the person and trainer that I am today.

What's your favourite part of your job, and why?

My coworkers, (and best friends) as they lift me up and push me to new limits everyday.

What makes your job meaningful?

My clients and students! I love teaching and empowering others to find their own journey in fitness, as I found mine.

What has your overall experience been like working here?

Through my role in the Department of Athletics, I’ve gained invaluable experience in teamwork, leadership, and navigating complex situations. The relationships I’ve built and the skills I’ve refined here have equipped me with a unique toolkit for my professional journey ahead.

What's your favourite part of your job, and why? 

When I arrived at the University of Guelph, I was the typical overwhelmed first-year student. Everything changed when I spotted a posting on Experience Guelph for a role in Client Service. What started as a job quickly became my community. This position allowed me to connect with people from incredibly diverse backgrounds and transformed my university experience from daunting to deeply rewarding. The bonds I’ve formed here are permanent; I know they will carry with me after I am done. I’m leaving not just with professional skills, but with some amazing friends.

What makes your job meaningful?

What makes this job truly meaningful is the unique opportunity to work in an environment where everyone is at a similar life stage, navigating the University experience together. There is a special kind of solidarity in that. It has created a natural support system where we truly 'get' what each other is going through, in one way or another.

Some of the most transformative conversations I’ve ever had have taken place right here in this building. Beyond the scheduled work, there is something quite special about the spontaneity of the role, you never know who you’ll end up running into or chatting with on any given day. Those unexpected connections have shaped my time here just as much as the job itself.

What has your overall experience been like working here?

Working at the Fitness Centre has truly changed my university experience in the best way possible, and applying was the best decision I have made in my undergrad thus far. I have met the most amazing people, built lifelong friendships, and grown so much both individually and professionally. I am so lucky to be part of such a close-knit community that makes the Guelph campus feel like home!

What has your overall experience been like working here?

It's been welcoming, accommodating, great overall!

What's your favourite part of your job, and why?

Learning to become a cycling instructor! I have always wanted to learn to teach a fitness class, and it's so fun to make workouts and challenge people that come to my classes.

What makes your job meaningful?

Teaching, and trying to facilitate a safe environment where everyone can workout.

What has your overall experience been like working here?

My experience working at the Athletic Centre has been extremely positive. The environment is fast-paced yet supportive, which has taught me how to remain calm, professional, and efficient during busy periods. The team culture is strong; everyone is willing to help one another. This role has allowed me to develop valuable skills in communication, responsibility, and customer service.

What's your favourite part of your job, and why?

My favourite part of the job is working during basketball and volleyball game days. I really enjoy being part of the setup, getting the space ready, making sure everything is organized, and helping the event run smoothly. It’s a different pace than a normal shift, and the atmosphere in the arena is always exciting. Being in that environment and knowing I helped make it happen is what makes it the best part for me.

What makes your job meaningful?

It feels meaningful because the Athletic Centre is a space that impacts students’ health, routines, and community. Even small things, like keeping areas safe, answering questions, and helping operations run properly, make a difference in how comfortable and supported people feel. Knowing I’m part of a team that helps create a positive experience for students makes the work feel worthwhile.

What has your overall experience been like working here?

Working at the Fitness Centre has been a generally positive experience! It’s amazing getting the chance to interact with awesome staff and members daily. Everyone in this space is friendly and working towards a shared goal of improving their health, whether it’s mentally or physically.

What's your favourite part of your job, and why?

My favourite part is getting to meet new people every day, who are motivated to invest time into themselves and improve upon themselves. Meeting people with this shared goal motivates me to also improve daily, and makes it more fun coming into work every day.

What makes your job meaningful?

My job becomes meaningful when I can see I’ve made a positive impact on new members, and when I have the ability to make someone’s day better by chatting with them or helping them.

What has your overall experience been like working here?

My overall experience has been phenomenal. Working on campus through my undergrad allowed for consistency and ease, with flexibility that could work with my busy and ever changing schedule. Even post graduation, I feel like a part of the UofG community. The management team has been supportive and works hard to ensure that our students get the most that we have to offer.

What's your favourite part of your job, and why?

My coworkers are awesome. We are all like minded individuals, and know when to support each other. This is especially true when needing motivation to work out. It is very cool to be able to work out here and see so many friends at all hours. Everyone wants the best for themselves and others and it inspires me to work harder every day.

What makes your job meaningful?

Seeing the positive impact that movement has on people. Seeing them slowly come out of their shells and become regulars. Making relationships with these regulars.

What has your overall experience been like working here?

Fantastic I love working here.

What's your favourite part of your job, and why?

I love the socializing of the job cause I’m a outgoing person and enjoy talking.

What makes your job meaningful?

My job is meaningful to me because it helps me learn different skills that I can use in my daily life.