Danielle Kraichy is a 4th year student at UBC currently pursuing a major specialization in First Nations and Indigenous Studies (FNIS). Danielle is of Métis descent and is the current FNIS assistant, read on to learn more!
Can you tell me about what you’re studying and why you were drawn to it?
I am in my fourth year of my undergraduate degree, majoring in First Nations and Indigenous Studies. When I was thinking about what courses to register in for my first semester of University, my sister encouraged me to take FNSP 100 (now FNIS 100). This course not only helped me with my own understanding of my family and our Métis culture, but also provided new issues and concepts that I was unaware of or unable to articulate. This, along with passionate and caring professors and students, really drew me to First Nations and Indigenous Studies.
You’re the new FNIS assistant with Work/Learn, congrats! Can you elaborate a bit on your position?
Thank you! Well, in my position I help with some administrative work but also edit the Post, the FNIS and ASA biweekly newsletter, and the Raven, FNIS’ annual publication. Since my position is through UBC and my Supervisor is from the same department I Major in (FNIS), I am provided with a lot of support for my studies. Having both my work and my classes in the same area on campus provides me with more time to study and follow through with my other commitments.
What has been your biggest challenge at UBC so far? How did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge at UBC so far has definitely been balancing my studies with my mental health. It is so easy to get caught up in courses, grades and other academic ventures and then feel guilty if you turn some of these opportunities down. However, learning to say no to some things and just enjoy some time completely away from your studies can do wonders on your attitude – it did for me. For me, being happy and making time where I don’t have to do anything is so important and it makes learning a lot more rewarding.
Can you tell me more about your Métis roots? How do you stay connected to your culture while at UBC?
Sure. I am a member of the Manitoba Métis Federation with lineage to Métis of the Red River Settlement. I didn’t grow up being too immersed in my culture other than within my own family. My university studies really provided me with an opportunity to explore my lineage and make cultural connections between my family, my community and my studies. I stay connected with my culture by attending events and get togethers with other Indigenous folks in Vancouver and by skyping my family back home. I also visit once or twice a year and really try to incorporate my Métis family into my course work when appropriate. My connection to my culture subtly shifts but it is always there.
Where on campus is home for you?
The First Nations Longhouse is definitely my home away from home on campus. I visited the Longhouse for the first time with my mother before my first year of University and after that visit, she felt much better with me staying in Vancouver because of the environment that the Longhouse and its inhabitants create. I also acquired my first Work/Learn position at the Longhouse and was able to get to know a lot of folks because of that position. The weekly lunches, study spaces and lounge spaces are fantastic as well!
Do you have any advice for new/current students at UBC?
Find something you enjoy doing and make it personalised to keep your interest in your studies. This doesn’t just apply to one’s major or degree but also takes into account class size, other program opportunities, and clubs relevant to your program and fellow classmates. Personalise your degree through certain electives, exchange opportunities or connecting your class assignments to your own family. Also, making friends in your classes, especially those who will be or are in your cohort, can really help get you through your studies. If you miss a class or don’t understand something you have someone to help you and vice versa.
The Post is a newsletter curated by First Nations and Indigenous Studies (FNIS) and Aboriginal Student Affairs (ASA) in UBC’s Faculty of Arts. It is sent out bi-weekly and contains lots of important information about events, news, dates & deadlines and job opportunities. To subscribe to The Post, please email fnis.assistant@ubc.ca.
