FROM EAST COAST POTATO FARM, VISSER FITS IN WITH BIG CITY LIFE

Mitchell Visser has adjusted quite well.

He's a 22-year old from the historic area of Orwell Corner or, if you prefer, the lovely community of Montague. If you're still not familiar, think about the part of Canada known for Yukon gold potatoes.

Right, Prince Edward Island.

"I grew up and live on a potato farm – it's a different lifestyle than Toronto," said Visser, who had put in his hours working long hours before shuffling off for post-education. "The city is new for me, but I'm alright."

Visser came to George Brown to study in the Prosthetic and Orthotic Technician Program. A bright student and was on the academic honor roll at Montague Regional High School. He's also a graduate of one of the top universities in Canada - St. Francis Xavier in Antigonish, N.S. - and has a Bachelor of Science degree majoring in Biology.

He's willing to have a chat about what makes a good potato – and he knows. His preference: not the bags of chips or the fries.

"Baked potato – can't beat it," he said. "Do it right and it tastes like candy."

Visser thought about attending George Brown, and the hustle of a Canada's biggest city, when he returned home for the summer months.

"I wanted a career in prosthetics – and George Brown was the only one in Canada," recalled Visser. "(The program) is exactly what I thought."

It's not all studies, books and burning the late night candles for Visser. It's also about staying in good physical shape.

He has played hockey, soccer and likes running – long distances. He has competed in seven half-marathons and his goal is to compete in one of those races in each province. He has completed three so far.

A natural fit was signing up for the George Brown cross-country team.

Visser has done quite well in his rookie year and will compete at the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association championship hoping to qualify for the national final.

Pushed by memories of his grandfather, Visser has been inspired by the goals and passion of a man, who passed away last year.

On the cross-country circuit, Visser was 50th in his first race as a Husky. It was in London. at the Fanshawe Invitational, crossing the finish line of the 8 km course in 34 minutes, eight seconds.

A week later, it was 46th at the Redeemer Invitational in Ancaster. On Oct. 5, a different course at the Humber Invitational in Etobicoke, Visser was 53rd in 32:37. His most recent race: 22nd at the Seneca Invitational in King City clocked in 33:19.

Source: George Brown College

Photo Credit: Thomas Chung