Why did you choose UPEI as part of your academic path?

I'm from PEI so I really wanted to stay close to home. I also wanted to be a part of positive change here on PEI. 

What program are you in?

I'm completing a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in Psychology and Sociology. I've also taken as many opportunities as I can to enrol in the Indigenous special topics courses offered at UPEI. These courses connected me with Indigenous professors and helped me deepen my understanding as to how I can help educate our UPEI community on our Indigenous history. 

What's your role here on campus the Mawi'omi Centre? 

In my final year of studies I had the opportunity to work at the Mawi'omi Centre as a lead student assistant which involved all kinds of things including supporting both current and incoming Indigenous students as well as planning events and activities for students on campus. 

What do you love most about working at the Mawi'omi Centre? 

I love getting to make connections with other Indigenous students and to be there for them when they need support. I love knowing that I have the opportunity to make a difference for other Indigenous students at UPEI. 

What was your biggest learning moment/lesson?

I'm always continuing to learn new things but learning that there are supports here on campus for Indigenous students was a big turning point for me. I learned how to ask for those supports and now I get to help other students access them.

What advice would you give to others considering post-secondary education?

My advice would be to not be scared to reach out and ask for help. Getting involved and being social earlier in your degree instead of later helps you feel safe on campus and helps you create meaningful connections.