When Amélie Fleck '25 first landed on Vancouver Island from Geneva, Switzerland, she didn’t expect Winslow House to soon feel like a second family - or to be leading service projects, competing in cross-country meets and guiding prospective families through open house tours. But over her three years at SMUS, she’s found purpose, pride and passion in all corners of campus.
Boarding life became Amélie’s anchor early on. From her very first night in the house, she remembers being welcomed with warmth and understanding.
“The head of house came straight to my room that evening, because she had gone through the same thing herself,” said Amélie. “That small gesture made me feel seen.”
With roommates from Mexico, France and Germany over the years, Amélie’s learned to embrace different cultures and adapt to living alongside a diverse group of peers.
“It’s been an amazing opportunity to grow, not just personally, but globally,” she said.
Amélie’s time at SMUS has been defined by giving back. Through Service Council, she’s led projects like a school-wide fundraiser supporting young children’s access to nutrition and education.
“It’s empowering to know we’re helping people start something that can change their future,” she said.
She also brings that sense of purpose to her role as a tour guide during open house events.
“SMUS has given me so much, and I wanted to help others find that same kind of experience,” said Amélie. “It’s also been nice to stay connected with the admissions team, the very people who helped me begin my journey here.”
A firm believer that community fuels confidence, Amélie has embraced nearly every opportunity SMUS offers. She’s taken part in both field hockey and cross-country, two sports she hadn’t tried before coming to Victoria.
“I used to play netball back home, so I knew I liked team sports,” she explained. “But cross-country especially taught me to push myself. It’s a mental challenge as much as a physical one.”
House Games, one of her favourite traditions, taps into her love of fun and friendly competition.
“We go all-out with music, face paint and full energy,” she laughed. “I get super competitive when I care about the people I’m playing with.”
Being a boarding student has helped Amélie stay balanced amidst a full schedule of academics, service work, athletics and volunteer leadership.
“My house parents are so supportive. They know my schedule and always check in, asking how things went and making sure I’m doing okay,” she said. Living on campus means there’s no commute and every opportunity is just steps away.
It’s also been a foundation for discovering who she is.
“I think SMUS has shown me that wherever I go, I’ll be able to find something meaningful,” Amélie said thoughtfully. “It’s given me the confidence to keep exploring, and to trust that I’ll land in the right place.”
From Geneva to Victoria, from hesitant newcomer to spirited leader, Amélie Fleck’s SMUS story is still unfolding, but she’s already left her mark.
