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

I came to UPEI mainly to pursue my post-secondary education. I'm from Ghana which is situated in the Western part of the African continent. Travelling to Canada was motivated by the opportunities I had heard other immigrants testify about Canada. In search of a good university to continue my education, UPEI was referred to me by a relative. I took some quality time to research the school and I was impressed as I read the mission and goals of UPEI: “... founded on the tradition of liberal education, UPEI exists to encourage and assist people to acquire the skills, knowledge, and understanding necessary for critical and creative thinking, and thus prepare them to contribute to their own betterment and that of society through the development of their full potential...” Starting the application process to join the UPEI community followed smoothly with so much excitement!

What do you find unique and interesting about the Diversity and Social Justice Studies program?

Diversity and Social Justice Studies is a great program. It takes the approach of understanding how the various identities of people affect, and are affected by, the justice system. What interests me the most is how the various professors (especially Dr. Ann Braithwaite) guide us to take an in-depth study into how justice could be served to everyone equally. I call it our little "class parliament".

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

Throughout the years of my study at UPEI, some of my classmates have been a great academic motivation to me. Hearing them confidently share their thoughts in class discussions offers me a space into their minds. I get to know and understand things I didn’t before. The staff and faculty members have provided me with academic counselling, and answered all the questions I have about the program, adding encouraging words which fuel me to pursue greater academic performance.

"... the diversity of students accepted into UPEI is such a wonderful sight to behold. That interestingly offers a real university life experience, where different people from different walks of life meet together in one single classroom, at the dining hall, and in the various residences."

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

Studying at UPEI offered me the opportunity to participate in the Michelle Obama Conference, which was such a great exposure for me as someone interested in law and in the multifaceted course of administering and enforcing social justice. Through some courses I took, I was privileged to volunteer in really amazing organizations like the PEI Coalition for Women in Government. Also, as the president of the Lighthouse Campus Fellowship ratified with the UPEI Student Union, great opportunities like discount benefits, having the space to hold gatherings, as well as getting the concerns of students out there has been really amazing privilege. I have enjoyed so many opportunities as a UPEI student.

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

I must acknowledge that the diversity of students accepted into UPEI is such a wonderful sight to behold. That interestingly offers a real university life experience, where different people from different walks of life meet together in one single classroom, at the dining hall, and in the various residences. That has been a very informative and fun experience for me as well as other students.

In PEI, the distinct culture of the province has afforded me with so many great memories. I got used to eating potatoes after coming here! The solidarity that exists among the people offers me a unique understanding into community building, which of course, is very important. One thing I’m always glad about in PEI is the level of safety. That’s one thing many people in other provinces do not get to enjoy, especially immigrants.

What would you tell a high school student considering your program?

Diversity and Social Justice Studies will offer you so many great insights into how society serves, whether fairly or unfairly, the different identities of people. Don’t take it just because you want to enrol in a program, take it because you’re passionate about human life, social justice, law, diversity and inclusion, and other facets of community building. You will find ways to make society better when you’re passionate.

What are your general plans after graduation?

After graduation, I intend to work in any government organization that upholds justice, human rights, and the fair treatment of people before heading on to continue my education in related fields.