"The Diversity and Social Justice Studies program at UPEI is one-of-a-kind!"
What brought you to UPEI? Why did you choose to study here?
I chose to come to UPEI because it was local, and I wanted to study somewhere where I could put my knowledge to use in a community that I know. I'm from Goose River, PEI—a very small rural community on the northeast shore of the Island.
What do you find unique and interesting about the Diversity and Social Justice Studies (DSJS) program?
The Diversity and Social Justice Studies program at UPEI is one-of-a-kind, with very few others like it in existence currently. It has also inspired other schools to look into creating similar courses and programs.
What kinds of support have you received during your time here from UPEI students, staff, and faculty members?
I have received a lot of support from others in my program when looking at topics in my courses as well as from Dr. Ann Braithwaite (DSJS program co-ordinator). She has helped me strive to do more research and push myself to do more to use my knowledge in practice. She has always been there to help me when I am confused on a topic or just need advice.
"The Diversity and Social Justice Studies program is very unique, and offers a lot of great opportunities. Discussion and lecture topics often make for interesting conversations, and the knowledge you'll gain can be used in many different ways and fields."
What kinds of opportunities have you experienced because you're studying at UPEI, or because of the Island location?
By studying on PEI and at UPEI, I’ve been able to give back to the local queer community by helping at fundraisers, taking part in seminars and rallies, and volunteering with groups like the Peers Alliance youth group. And I’ve built connections with great people including community leaders and people in high government positions.
What's unique about UPEI, and Prince Edward Island, in your experience?
UPEI and PEI are small places, where you can get to know people and have more opportunities for good discussions. You can easily build connections with professors and community leaders.
What would you tell a high school student considering the DSJS program?
I would tell a high school student that the DSJS program is very unique, and offers a lot of great opportunities. Discussion and lecture topics often make for interesting conversations, and the knowledge you'll gain can be used in many different ways and fields.
What are your general plans after graduation?
I'm hoping to work for the government, ideally the Human Rights Commission, or at a not-for-profit organization or the Child Advocacy Office. I also might potentially look at going back to school to study Law, or to continue in this current field.
Find your genius as a UPEI student!
Read more about our students' amazing achievements and their future plans!
Interested in UPEI? Contact our student advisement team today at apply@upei.ca.
Meet Rosaline, UPEI Bachelor of Sustainable Design Engineering student. Originally from Damascus, Rosaline hopes to work in the sustainable energy sector and obtain a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
Meet Nathalie, Master of Business Administration in Global Leadership graduate (Class of 2023). After attending UPEI for four months in 2014 as an exchange student, Nathalie knew she wanted to return to UPEI's Faculty of Business.
Meet Anam, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) student. After graduating next year, Anam hopes to complete an internship at a busy equine practice and a residency in sports medicine and rehabilitation with a focus on equine patients.
Meet Nicole, Bachelor of Education with a specialization in Indigenous education graduate (Class of 2023). Nicole plans to return to her position as an Indigenous school social worker in Fort St. James, British Columbia.
Meet Madi, Baccalauréat en education - français langue seconde graduate (Class of 2023). Originally from Lawrencetown, Nova Scotia, Madi hopes to teach French in an elementary school and pursue a Master’s degree in education.
Meet Yvan, Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Design Engineering graduate (Class of 2023). Originally from Mauritius, Yvan had always wanted to come to Canada for university, and discovered UPEI's Engineering program was a perfect match.
Meet Carter, a student in UPEI's Bachelor of Science in Chemistry program. Originally from Stratford, PEI, Carter participated in a Study Abroad trip to Belgium last year.
Meet Ehimen, Bachelor of Business Administration program graduate (Class of 2023). He's focused on a career in the music industry as a rapper and producer.
Meet Tanner, DSJS and Philosophy student at UPEI. Tanner is from Goose River, PEI, and hopes to work in human rights, child advocacy, or law in the future.
Meet Henrietta, Bachelor of Science in Nursing program graduate (Class of 2023). Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, Henrietta graduated in May 2023 and served as her class valedictorian at UPEI Convocation.
