In the summer of 2021, Sandy Kirkpatrick retired from Carleton University after 16 years in the Department of Philosophy. We recently caught up with her to ask her how her retirement has been going, and to reflect on her time working at Carleton!
Sandy, you are missed dearly by the department! But, you have certainly earned your retirement! What have you been up to since retiring?
Sandy Kirkpatrick and her mini golden doodle, Sophie, at their favourite dog park by the ocean.
Shortly after announcing my retirement, my husband accepted a job transfer to Victoria, BC. We’ve been living the dream since the day we arrived! I now can take the time to revive old hobbies that I once loved and discover new interests. I’ve always wanted to spend more time in the garden – now I can and truly enjoy it. With our balmy climate, there is always something in bloom!
Do you finally get to feel rested now, without the hustle and bustle of the department?
Definitely! Even though my job was always interesting and enjoyable, decades of being on the same 9 to 5 schedule can wear a person out. But I sure don’t rest – there are not enough hours in my day to cram everything in that I want to do! I won’t complain about having to make decisions like which trail Sophie (a former CU Therapy dog) and I will tackle next or which beach to visit!
Hopefully, retirement has been great! But, are there moments when you miss the department or the people within it?
Honestly, I don’t think a day goes by that I don’t think of someone – whether it be a staff member or a student – so many memories! I miss helping the students sort out their schedules and knowing that my advice made their academic lives a little less complicated. How could I not miss the best department at Carleton?!
Thank you for talking to us Sandy! Do you have any closing comments you’d like to share? Any closing wisdom to offer students or staff in the department?
Work hard and dream big! Someday, at least some of those dreams will come true!