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

My hometown is South Granville, Prince Edward Island, and I have always dreamt of pursuing my dream of becoming a registered nurse. I started at Holland College in the practical nursing program and finished one semester there. I got accepted at UPEI for the following semester. I chose to study at UPEI because I had always heard such wonderful things about the university and the success stories of graduates. There were always so many positives of what you could do while studying there and furthering and continuing your education. I was also happy that I could still be close to home and family since I had already lived off the Island for previous schooling. I am currently in my second year of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at UPEI. 

What do you find unique and interesting about your program?

What I find unique and interesting about the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at UPEI is the strong focus on primary health care, having the opportunity to engage with communities on P.E.I, the supportive environment of peers and faculty, and the aspect of becoming critical thinkers, advocates and professional leaders in the nursing profession. The BScN program is challenging, rewarding and very professional which makes it very interesting and unique to me.
 

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

I have received much support while at UPEI so far throughout the past two years. I have made amazing friendships and strong connections with peers and have gotten the opportunity to become a part of the UPEI community. There is great support with meeting education needs, such as accommodations, having health care access at the health centre, and having strong leaders in the staff and faculty to guide you and support you with your learning and any difficulties you may be experiencing. There is lots of room for extra practice when needed.

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

I have had the opportunity to be able to live at home with my family while attending UPEI because of the Island location. This has given me the opportunity to have a very close support system while attending my studies. I have also had the opportunity to experience a sense of community and engage with communities on the Island throughout my studies.

"I have met some of my closest friends while attending UPEI, and I know they are lifelong friendships; there is so much room to grow and so many opportunities to become your own person. It pushes your comfort zone, while also making you a stronger and more confident version of yourself."

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

I feel that UPEI has the uniqueness of a sense of community along with being able to experience the island life. PEI has a strong sense of community in general and I feel that UPEI portrays that well. UPEI is diverse and inclusive, making it safe and respectful for everyone attending.

What would you tell a high-school student considering coming to UPEI?

I would tell high school students considering coming to UPEI to do it! It is so rewarding to further your education with so many programs to choose from. It can be a scary move and a hard adjustment from high school, but when you pursue your dreams, it’s only the beginning of your life. I have met some of my closest friends while attending UPEI, and I know they are lifelong friendships; there is so much room to grow and so many opportunities to become your own person. It pushes your comfort zone, while also making you a stronger and more confident version of yourself.

How do you feel has UPEI prepared you for your future?

I feel that UPEI has prepared me for my future in many ways. I am very independent, I am really good at time management and organization since starting the program, and I have become a great critical thinker in many ways. My confidence in myself has increased drastically in the past two years because I have been pushed out of my comfort zone, and that has made me so much stronger and ready to pursue my career when I finish my program.