Education

3 SUPPLEMENT TO THE FREE PRESS • SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE From Hollow Water First Nation to UM TAYLOR BUSHIE IS SHAPING A BRIGHTER FUTURE IN INDIGENOUS EDUCATION "I just want to make an impact on my community," said Taylor Bushie, a Bachelor of Education student at the Uni- versity of Manitoba. Her commitment to Hollow Water First Na- tion, coupled with the influence of community members, guided her to UM. "A few of my favourite high school teachers went to UM. My mom went to UM," Taylor said. Her decision was also influenced by UM's strong Faculty of Education. Lisa Kachulak-Babey, Associate Regis- trar & Director of Student Recruitment, cites the university's diverse community and expansive selection of over 100 pro- grams as key reasons students choose UM. "Our community is diverse and welcom- ing. You're going to find your group and your friends here. And UM has an incredible range of programs—there's something for everyone" Lisa said. Taylor's decision to pursue a teaching career was driven by her experience with educational disparities within her community. "Growing up on reserve and seeing the type of education we had there compared to Winni- peg, it felt like we were behind in some cases," Taylor said. "I want to show that we are capable of succeeding in school and in life." Before entering the Bachelor of Education program, Taylor completed her Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies at UM. She is enthusiastic about teaching Indigenous Studies in the future and plans to include land- based learning. "I want to teach Indigenous Studies the way I know that's best and the way that made me fall in love with Indigenous Studies. And I just want to be able to pass on that knowledge to everyone else," she said. Taylor intends to go back to her community, or a different Indigenous community, to teach. "I know how rewarding it will be," she said. Taylor's academic experience has been posi- tive, but she acknowledges the unique challeng- es faced as an Indigenous student, like some- times feeling out of place. However, the presence and support of other Indigenous students has been a source of com- fort. "When you see those other Indigenous stu- dents, it makes you feel safe, makes you feel like home," Taylor said. Lisa emphasizes that UM's supportive envi- ronment is a major attraction for students. "Students know they won't feel alone here— they'll have someone who cares about their journey and their future beyond UM." Taylor began her studies at UM in the Univer- sity 1 (U1) program. U1 offers a flexible first-year structure, al- lowing students to explore different academic paths and receive tailored guidance. Forty-nine per cent of first-year students opt for U1. "University 1 allows you to sample different subject areas and make the decision of what you want to ultimately study in year two," Lisa said. "It doesn't add time or money to your degree, as all your credits earned in University 1 count to- wards your final chosen field of study—it's like dating the university before you have to marry a faculty." Moving forward, Taylor is focused on becom- ing a source of inspiration for her community and young Indigenous students from small re- serve schools. She aims to encourage them to overcome their fears and pursue higher educa- tion. Her own journey has ignited a lasting passion for learning and teaching. "I feel like I want to come back. Hopefully for my master's one day." SUPPLIED PHOTO Taylor Bushie I want to teach Indigenous Studies the way I know that's best and the way that made me fall in love with Indigenous Studies". — Taylor Bushie, 2023 UM Graduate UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA

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