A Bachelor of Arts alumni, Noah is currently a Graduate Student and Indigenous Teaching Fellow pursuing his PhD at UBC. His PhD work involves studying experiential education for Indigenous students. Read on to find out more about his passion to support Indigenous educational methodologies and why he decided to stay at UBC Okanagan instead of transferring to UBC Vancouver.
1. How did your experiences at UBC shape your future?
I was fortunate enough to participate in multiple global experiences during my time at UBC. I traveled around the world for credit and conferences and visited Australia, Mexico, Norway, and the United States. These experiences informed my understanding of global connections for Indigenous people, acting as a catalyst for my Ph.D. research.
2. In what ways has UBC allowed you to create your own unique experiences and path?
UBC created a space that allowed me to participate in initiatives across both campuses. I worked in multiple departments supporting Indigenous affairs and initiatives, enabling me to find a passion for education. Ultimately, I was able to build long-lasting connections with both faculty and staff which became a unique community for my educational journey.
3. How have your interests and passions helped to shape your education?
As an inspiring educator, I have a passion to further improve teaching methods and practices for Indigenous students in higher education. My passion to support Indigenous educational methodologies allowed me to work with my local Syilx community building more connections between community and education for Indigenous youth. This passion drove me to build relationships across both campuses and use UBC’s vast web of connections across the globe to earn credits, work experience, and conduct research to shape my own unique educational experience.
4. How did UBC give hands-on experience in your field of study?
As a graduate student studying experiential education for Indigenous students, I was able to participate in experiential educational opportunities in both a local and global context. I was able to gain valuable hands-on experience regarding Indigenous education in Mexico, Australia, and local Syilx communities, participating in land-based education experiences. This allowed me to gain valuable experience in my subject of research and discipline, connecting me with Indigenous people on a global and local scale.
5. What are (or were, when you were an undergrad) your favourite spots on campus? Best study spots, places to eat, best coffee?
The Indigenous Centre is my home away from home! It was a space to connect with peers, staff, and faculty and it’s where I made friends that I now call family. I have endless memories of studying for midterms, having coffee before class, and enjoying weekly community lunches in this space. My other favourite spot on campus is the courtyard. The courtyard offers a bright and open space to study, a place to hangout with friends, and a spot to eat lunch on the warm Okanagan fall and spring days!
6. Do you have any tips or advice for someone who’s considering UBC Okanagan?
UBC Okanagan offers a more relaxed lifestyle while still offering endless opportunities for students. It offers everything you want from UBC but with a smaller community feeling. Community is something UBC Okanagan students pride themselves on – it is hard to walk throughout campus without bumping into someone you know! There are also numerous clubs, volunteer opportunities, and job opportunities to connect and meet new people.
I first came to UBC Okanagan with plans to transition to UBC Vancouver. However, after joining the community I could not leave. UBC Okanagan forever changed my life with the abundance of opportunities and caring faculty and staff. Whether UBC Okanagan is a short or long-term commitment in your educational journey, you will be glad you joined this community.
