"The more I study Indigenous knowledge and education, the more I know myself."

Meet Saugat, UPEI Psychology, Indigenous Studies, and Philosophy student

Aug 26, 2024 | UPEI Viewbook 2025

What brought you to UPEI? Why did you choose to study here?

My hometown is Pokhara, Nepal where I grew up and spent most of my life. It is a beautiful valley surrounded by big hills and snowy mountain peaks. I do not prefer big cities and crowded areas, and it just so happens that UPEI is on an island that is relatively small and chill—perfect to study in. UPEI also had programs that really interested me, so I am here!

What do you find unique and interesting about the Indigenous Studies Minor program and its classes?

As an Indigenous person from Nepal, I connect to the way of life of Indigenous people in Canada—from their perspective on nature to their way of living—so many things are similar with subtle differences. I was hooked by the Indigenous Studies minor from my first day at UPEI. We did not go through the cruel and heartbreaking things Indigenous people here went through, but still what we are as Indigenous people in our country is different in that we don’t have the same sense of community and proudness of being Indigenous back home. We still have our traditions from thousands of years ago, but I feel we can learn so much from people here. The more I study Indigenous knowledge and education, the more I know myself.

a UPEI student talking with two friends in the Robertson Library

What kinds of support have you received during your time here from UPEI students, staff, and faculty members?

UPEI being a smaller institution, most of the students get to make personal connections with professors, other students, and staff here. Everyone is very friendly and helpful to the students.

What kinds of opportunities have you experienced because you're studying at UPEI, or because of the Island location?

I get to walk on the coastline whenever I feel like it, and feel the oceanic breeze. The Island has so much to offer in regards to scenic places, so if you are a nature lover you will love to explore this island and its beauty. UPEI has so many opportunities to volunteer and participate in campus life fun that you will never get bored.

"As an Indigenous person from Nepal, I connect to the way of life of Indigenous people in Canada—from their perspective on nature to their way of living—so many things are similar with subtle differences."

What's unique about UPEI, and Prince Edward Island, in your experience?

The personal connection we can build with everyone here, including the Faculty of Indigenous Knowledge, Education, Research, and Applied Studies, is unique to UPEI for sure. Everyone here is lovely.

a UPEI student working on a laptop in the Mawi'omi Indigenous Student Centre

What would you tell a high school student considering the Indigenous Studies Minor program at UPEI?

If you want to know more about nature and yourself, take this course. It offers everything from Indigenous history to the spiritual aspect of Indigenous ways of life. And you'll learn about fun aspects like cooking and crafting, too. All the professors are wonderful people and you will absolutely love them. This minor will provide you the window to look at the world from Indigenous Peoples' perspective.

What are your general plans after graduation?

To study more! Learning shall never stop, and I will explore more about what I can study and I want to study. I will likely study in the fields of psychology and mental health, without giving too many spoilers.