John Chaput:  

College Attended Loyola College/Concordia University, Montreal, 1972-76, majored in working on the Loyola News school newspaper as a sports writer and photographer. Got my CEGEP credits but was not a good student. Still, had a terrific time. Fall 1976 studies ground to a halt through a combination of indifference and bad health. (I got better . . .) Resumed studies at University of Regina, January 1996, majoring in English, while maintaining full-time work. Got BA (Great Distinction) spring 1998, award as outstanding graduate in Faculty of Arts. At the urging of my English profs I continued with studies towards Masters degree. (Why I decided to start listening to teachers at this stage in my life, I just don't know.) Completed all classes but got bogged down on my thesis; withdrew January '03, waiting for opportunity to re-apply so I can finish the damn thesis and get the stupid degree now that I've already put this much time into it. (Well, it's not a total loss. I mean, if your head's got to jammed full of something, it might as well be Shakespeare.) Workplace 1977-78: Moose Jaw Times-Herald, sports editor. 1978-98: Regina Leader-Post. Five years as sports reporter, worked up to the prime beats (Saskatchewan Roughriders football, curling) but irregular hours were an irritant. Requested transfer to sports desk (editing and layout) when my son was born in 1982 and got it at the end of that year. Thought I could get back into writing once kids were in school. Nope ... spent 15 years on sports and news desks. Reached my limit after my father died. I didn't want to lo...Expand for more