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

I grew up in Richmond, PEI in the Région Évangéline, and have lived on the Island my whole life. I was attracted to UPEI by its sociology program and my love for the Island. Having done my first year at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax majoring in criminology, I decided to transfer back home because Halifax wasn’t for me. I missed the island and its small community. I decided on sociology as it piqued my interest while I was at Saint Mary’s—UPEI’s sociology program was especially interesting because it seemed like a generally smaller program, with interesting courses and great faculty. 

What do you find unique and interesting about the Sociology program?

It is a very tight-knit program, with Sociology and Anthropology often crossing (especially since there is a SAN course code). I really like the Sociology and Anthropology society, compromised of students from both programs. They set up activities like game nights, movies, and trivia. The society members are incredible people, and they are all so kind! They also do meet and greets with new faculty, and people from outside the university. I think they are doing a great job at creating a community within the department.

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

All the faculty in the Sociology and Anthropology department are so kind and personable; they really care about you and make you feel like an equal. The thing I am most thankful for is that I made connections with faculty members. As an honours student, many professors have helped me along the way (namely my supervisor, Dr. Cinthya Guzman) who has been supporting me through my honours research and my applications for graduate studies. Dr. Sébastien Parker has also helped me so much along the way. Since it is a small department, I know all the professors and they all know me; it is a great incentive to work hard and do great things.

Very under-tapped resources include UPEI's librarians! We have incredibly knowledgeable librarians that love to help students with research. Juanita Rossiter has helped my research group in a University Studies class with our project on the foundation of UPEI. This project went on to be featured in the Faculty of Arts Annual Student Showcase, undoubtedly thanks to her help!

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

I would say that the honours degree experience has been unique and eye-opening. I was able to learn how to apply for approval through the university’s Research Ethics Board, and they provided me helpful feedback and support through every step. With my honours topic, it is only so successful because it is taking place on PEI. I am interested in learning how homeschooled adults perceive their social experiences and integration from their education backgrounds. Because of the Island’s small community, there is no literature on homeschooling, so my research will be filling a significant research gap. 

"As I start my graduate studies at Queen's University this coming fall, I will remember how I found confidence to speak in small classrooms, that my ideas are valuable, and that my work is meaningful. Everything I did during my degree was a process, as are most things in life, and I had a great support system here at this University."

On a personal note, I got to stay in my hometown with my family, my grandparents, and my childhood friends because I chose to study on the Island. This island is home. Being able to live here and be near my family is so important to me. 

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

I would say UPEI’s history is unique. I encourage everyone to read up on Saint Dunstan’s University (SDU), as it highlights a lot of past conflict in our province. There are a lot of cool stories (ghost stories as well!) and potential myths about the old university, which adds to my appreciation for this campus. Just walking through the campus and looking at the detail on the older buildings (SDU Main Building and Dalton Hall in particular) makes me appreciate how far this institution has come. The way that Charlottetown has now come together as a community is truly beautiful. UPEI is perfectly situated in the middle of Charlottetown, which has a local feel no matter where you go.

What would you tell a student considering UPEI and the Sociology program?

I would tell them that it’s a great program with a great community. Take the time to get to know your professors, go to office hours even if it’s just to chat! They are here because they want to be and are all so nice and easy to talk to. The sociology program is amazing and has small classes. Just make sure you check off your requirements early, in case classes fill up. Doing well in small classes will get you noticed and will create opportunities. I have no regrets, this has program met me where I stood and helped me succeed, fostering my passion for learning.

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

As I start my graduate studies at Queen's University this coming fall, I will remember how I found confidence to speak in small classrooms, that my ideas are valuable, and that my work is meaningful. Everything I did during my degree was a process, as are most things in life, and I had a great support system here at this University. Things are rarely perfect first try, and that’s kind of the point. You grow through effort, poor results, and failure. I am no longer afraid to fail, and will not be held back by it anymore thanks to this university. 

I have also learned the process of academic writing, which means acknowledging your short comings and accepting advice on your work even in your early draft. This used to feel quite embarrassing, but turns out, all faculty experience this. The PhD professors we have here are still human – they don’t write perfectly on their first try. This realization has helped me feel less intimidated by those above me, but also feel more confident in my work.