Always a Helping Hand on Campus: Meet Lefin Paruvaparampil Chacko

When Lefin Paruvaparampil Chacko first arrived at CBU from Alleppey, India, he knew he wanted to get involved on campus as much as possible. While pursuing his Bachelor of Engineering Technology, Lefin began volunteering and working at CBU in various roles, meeting new people from many different departments and teams. This fall he signed up to be a Week of Welcome (WOW) Leader and helped new students adjust to life at CBU. 

The main reason he wanted to become a WOW Leader, says Lefin, is to help others. “I was very happy when I heard that I was selected to be part of the WOW team this year,” he explains. “I was able to help so many of my fellow students and put smiles on their faces.” 

If you’ve been on campus in the past three months, you’ve likely gotten the chance to meet Lefin. Whether he’s helping the events team, swabbing at the COVID-19 clinic or even donning the Caper mascot suit, Lefin is never far from the action at CBU. He is one of the University’s most dedicated community members and has made an impact on countless students, faculty and staff since joining the campus. 

“Lefin is so positive and has more energy than anyone I’ve ever met,” says Alanna MacQueen, CBU Event Specialist. “He is always willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. He’s the first one to arrive and the last one to leave; we are so happy to have him as part of our CBU Events Team.”

What Lefin enjoys most about his university experience is feeling free to pursue any opportunity that comes his way. “So far I have volunteered with the COVID-19 Rapid Testing Clinic, and helped with various events such as the 2021 Membertou Open in support of CBU Athletics and Kidsport, the AUS Soccer Championships and the USports National Championships,” says Lefin. “I can’t wait to see what else I will experience during the rest of the school year.” 

Lefin believes his university experience has improved significantly since he started getting involved on campus. “Everyone should get involved on campus because you get to meet new people, feel like you are part of a team and it helps give your mood a positive boost,” says Lefin. “Pursuing these opportunities also helps with professional development as you are given the opportunity to learn how to work in groups, how to lead and how to complete tasks on your own.” 

Having only one year left at CBU, Lefin hopes to live in Cape Breton after graduating. “I chose CBU for my education because of the wonderful campus and people,” Lefin says. “For those same reasons, I would love to live in Cape Breton following my graduation so that I can continue to experience the beauty and people that this fantastic Island has to offer.”