When Laurie Schofield enrolled at UFV, she never imagined she’d build a meaningful career at the heart of a small community. Yet, through her love of learning and passion for language, her French major led to the fulfilling role she holds today: postmaster for the Matsqui Canada Post office.

Laurie initially dreamed of becoming a veterinarian. Her love for animals led her to study sciences at UFV, with a plan to transfer to vet school later. But while filling her schedule with electives, including French, she discovered that science wasn’t her path. Just as she considered switching to General Studies, UFV introduced a French major—and Laurie jumped at the opportunity to immerse herself in her lifelong love for the language.

Her French major provided opportunities, including a Study Abroad program in Quebec that helped her refine her language skills.

“I came back and talked to professors,” says Laurie, “and they said my French had improved.”

Laurie graduated in 2016 as part of the second class to complete UFV’s French major.

After graduation, Laurie sought ways to use her degree and began working part-time at the Sardis post office. Her bilingual skills gave her a distinct edge. “They needed French because it was a bilingual position,” she explains.

Through mentorship from her postmaster, Laurie grew in her role, eventually transferring to the Matsqui branch and taking over as postmaster. The move shifted her from a busy office to a smaller community office, where she found herself at the heart of a very unique space.

“The Matsqui office is not big. It’s a very small building,” says Laurie. “It was built in 1962. It still has some of the original desks that were used when it first was built. People comment on them  all the time.”

“Speaking both French and English, gives customers the opportunity, if they don’t speak English well, to speak French.”

Being one of the only employees in the building, Laurie not only became a cornerstone member of the Matsqui community, but she also utilizes her language skills to ensure that she can provide the best possible service.

“Speaking both French and English, gives customers the opportunity, if they don’t speak English well, to speak French,” says Laurie. “So, we’ll greet our customers with ‘hello’ and ‘bonjour’. And if they reply with ‘bonjour’ we know they want to speak French.”

For Laurie, being a part of a small community has been invigorating. She treasures the relationships she’s developed and continues to build with community members. “People tell me their life stories, just like they would a bartender,” she says.

Whether helping families after a loved one’s passing or watching children grow up, Laurie’s work goes far beyond sorting mail. Even during challenging times like postal strikes, community members check in just to chat and share stories.  Laurie’s experience at UFV, including the French major, opened doors to a rewarding career where she blends her language skills with her love for community. As postmaster, she continues to thrive at the heart of a small community, building connections that have enriched her life and career.