Lauren Cochrane came to Okanagan College (OC) unsure of her path. Three years later, she's competing on the national curling stage, supporting fellow students through OC's Peer Support program and working in the campus fitness facility -- all while maintaining a full course load in the Hall School of Business and Entrepreneurship at OC.
Lauren Cochrane with her PACWEST teammates
This year, Cochrane and her PACWEST curling teammates brought home a bronze medal from the CCAA National Curling Championships in Regina -- following a gold medal at the 2025 Championships. The team competed at the event with no coach, and only two practices together before the nine-game week began.
"We overcame a lot," said Cochrane, who studied for her OC midterms between games. "I'm just proud of how we showed up for each other."
As lead -- the player who throws the first stones and sets the tone for the game -- Cochrane focuses on communication, energy and strategy. Before each game, her team shared individual and collective goals. Afterward, they debriefed. It's an approach she brings from her classroom learning.
"The learning environment in the Hall School of Business and Entrepreneurship is supportive and collaborative," Cochrane said. "We're exposed to different areas of business, from accounting and marketing to leadership and strategy. All of it has helped me think strategically, work well in teams and manage multiple responsibilities."
Cochrane's involvement at OC extends well beyond competition. She works as a student employee in the campus fitness centre, where she helps keep the space running and connects with fellow students throughout the day.
"Even if it's just by handing out breakfast in the morning or boosting someone's confidence, it makes me feel like I'm contributing positively to someone's day," she said.
She is also a volunteer with OC's Peer Support program, one of the college's student-centred initiatives designed to foster connection and wellbeing on campus. Peer Support connects students with activities, resources and each other -- helping to build a culture where students feel seen and included.
For Cochrane, the program is personal. She has drawn on that support herself during her time at OC and is now passionate about extending it to others. "I've personally benefited from the support system," shared Cochrane. "Being part of Peer Support allows me to contribute to that same culture of inclusion and encouragement."
"OC has really become my place," she added.
It's not easy balancing national competition, a full course load, campus employment and peer leadership. But Cochrane works hard to make it work and sees parallels between her school life and sport life.
"There are tense moments where you have to stay present and sometimes put aside your feelings for the sake of the team," she said. "You keep it fun, but professional too."
She's also quick to acknowledge the people around her who have helped her succeed along the way. "I couldn't have done this without the support from the Kelowna Curling Club, the athletics staff at Okanagan College, my professors and peers in classes, or knowing that OC was cheering me on," Cochrane said.
For prospective students weighing their options, Cochrane's advice is straightforward. "If you're unsure of what you want, Okanagan College is a great place to start. There's something here for everyone. You can find your place just by showing up."
To get started at Okanagan College, visit okanagancollege.ca.
