Devon Davis graduated with a major in First Nations and Indigenous studies last May 2017. As an alumni, Devon took some time to share his experiences as a mature undergraduate student.
What’s your name and where are you from?
Kwe’, I am Mi’kmaq and European, a Jackatar, from the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation in Newfoundland. I am blessed to have a wonderful partner, ShiraRose, and two wise old children, Reuben, who is 7 months old, and Tryphena, who’s 3. I have been living/loving in xʷməθkʷəy̓əm-Musqueam, Skwxwuu7mesh-Squamish, səl̓ílwətaʔɬ–Tsleil-Waututh lands for 23 years.
Would you mind talking about your undergraduate major specialization and how you decided to choose it?
In 2017, I completed my Bachelor of Arts in First Nations and Indigenous studies (FNIS). I chose the program for many reasons. Prior to returning to school, I worked for Indigenous nonprofit organizations, so I felt the knowledge being shared [in non-profits] would help me do better work in the community. I also knew that FNIS deeply examines intense and important subject matter like race, class, gender and colonization, which I believe is critical knowledge to be a good person. The program helped me realize I have a lot of growing and maturing to do—and I was already a mature student! Another reason I chose FNIS is because I felt I might learn a little more about myself, my community and Turtle Island. And finally, the group of Indigenous professors at UBC is truly impressive. I am deeply honoured and humbled to have learned from some of the brightest Indigenous minds in history. Truly life changing and world changing.
How did you balance school, life and having a family?
This was tough. I don’t know if I would say I was always balanced. Some moments it was just like balancing on a tightrope. We had a baby (yahoo!) in the last semester of practicum, and it was impossible to stay balanced. I knew that certain moments would be intense, with little sleep or calm, and I had to remind myself that it was not permanent and the sacrifice and puffy eyes were for the kids. I got a lot of support and encouragement from family and friends. My in-laws were great. My classmates, now friends, really made the whole thing possible, from giving emotional support and hugs to sharing class notes to paying for parking when I forgot my wallet. Best and most of all, lots of kisses and love from my partner. The FNIS family were incredibly supportive and made sure I finished. Wela’lioq.
What advice would you offer to new and current Mature Aboriginal students at UBC?
The Aboriginal Advising team is amazing. I visited them every semester and showed them my course calendar and plan. I got so many tips and advice. Master the UBC Degree Navigator. As a student, you receive free sessions with a counsellor who will meet you at the Longhouse. This made a big difference to my emotional well-being. If your schedule permits, check out the Longhouse lunches on Tuesdays. Great way to meet people. I also recommend finding a nice quiet spot just for you. Somewhere in the woods where you can take a deep breath and say thank you and connect to Musqueam. It is a beautiful place. Enjoy yourself. Love it. Because it will not last forever.
Remember, you are doing awesome.
Where did you spend the most time on campus?
I had a few little homes while I was at UBC depending on the term, weather and my mood. I spent plenty of time in the cozy leather chairs by the fireplace in Koerner Library. Sometimes I would hide out in the woods by the Museum of Anthropology and eat my lunch. Try it. I also loved Mercante’s, which also has a fireplace and makes a good pizza.
All our Relations.
ASA Tip: The First Nations House of Learning is hosting a Welcome Lunch for all returning and new Aboriginal students. This is a great time to connect and catch-up with friends, faculty and staff. These Tuesday lunches will regularly return next week, starting January 9th 2018.
Tues, Jan 9, 12:30-1:30 pm
Sty-Wet-Tan Great Hall
