YouAlberta
When I was a high school student, I had no idea what my goal was for after graduation. Being Indigenous and the first in my immediate family to graduate, post-secondary education was a scary and brand new option for me. When I heard about the Transition Year Program (TYP) offered at the U of A, I thought that it would be my best opportunity to discover my options.
The additional supports and cultural aspects that TYP offered made my transition so much smoother and less daunting. I have the same to say about First Peoples House (FPH); the atmosphere that the people provide is exceptional and always welcoming. FPH is always a place that can provide a student in need with almost anything, ranging from a funny conversation, to emotional and study supports, to cultural guidance. I believe TYP and FPH are some of the most necessary resources that the U of A has for Indigenous students. Being part of something (such as a university) is scary and can be lonely, especially as an Indigenous student, and these on-campus resources provide a safe space and sense of belonging.
The TYP was an incredibly valuable resource for me. Now I am in my final year as an undergraduate student in the Faculty of Native Studies! Pursuing a BA in Native Studies came from the curiosity and admiration I have for my people, culture, and heritage. I figured that if I could learn more about these things with the addition of other Indigenous cultures here on Turtle Island, I knew I would love my university experience.
Even in the last year of my degree, I am still involved with the Transition Year Program. I have been a tutor to the students in TYP going on two years. I currently tutor NS110: Historical Perspectives in Native Studies, and NS111: Contemporary Perspectives in Native Studies. Both courses pertain to Indigenous life and are a safe space for any student, from any faculty, that are interested in learning more. This interest of tutoring came from wanting to help my community where I can, and to give back to TYP for all that the program has done for me. The Transition Year Program helped guide me through the challenges that come with being an Indigenous student, and as Indigenous people we greatly value kinship so those involved with TYP can feel like your family. They are truly a network of strong supports that I have accessed all through my degree.