“Trent has really shaped my way of thinking. I feel like I’m being led into this whole new world that makes me want to keep exploring. It hasn’t always been easy, but without Trent, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

Tristan Nugent is used to existing between two worlds, navigating his Haudenosaunee Mohawk culture, while not fitting the stereotype of what an ‘Indigenous’ person looks like. He continues to explore two worlds in his studies as a fourth-year Indigenous Studies and Political Studies student.

“My studies exist in two spaces. One side is constitutional law and politics and the other is Indigenous Studies. There can be tensions between the two,” explained Mr. Nugent. “When I stepped into the world of politics, to sit around a table and discuss issues that don’t affect non-Indigenous people in the same way, it was very challenging.”

He continues to look toward the future and cannot wait to continue his studies by attending law school.

“I want to help implement change for the system in order to improve the wellbeing of Indigenous peoples, through the courts by going to law school,” shared Mr. Nugent. “I wouldn’t have been able to do this without Trent.” 

Mr. Nugent was also part of a the First Peoples House of Learning “Breaking Down Stereotypes” poster series which shined a light on Indigenous student experiences with stereotyping while celebrating Indigenous identities. The series has had a lasting impact on Mr. Nugent’s experience at Trent and inspired conversations that he hopes will continue.

“This series allowed me to do positive things and open some minds. My own friends have started asking questions about things they didn’t know a lot about before,” explained Mr. Nugent. “That’s important and powerful. I’m very grateful to have had this experience at Trent.”

Learn more about Indigenous Studies and Political Studies at Trent.