The Experience

Cultural Knowledge

Indigenous cultural knowledge is a ready tool for students, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous, to obtain and use for their own development and for that of the society. Many aspects of the ‘self’ become known to the individual through the process of participating in and assisting with the various clusters within the Indigenous Studies program.

Students will have the opportunity to become involved and participate in many activities:

The Elders Gathering, Visiting Elders, the Indigenous Womens Symposium, Nozhem: First Peoples Performance Space and Indigenous Performance Initiatives, The Sacred Water Circle Conference and Walk for Water as well as Nishnaabemowin, Cree and Mohawk language courses all provide important and lasting tools for self-knowledge and for developing sound relationships with other cultural groups and nations and provide critical paths for personal growth. These large symposiums also offer students the opportunity to work independently and as team members to organize large scale events challenging their skills as conference coordinators in an institutional and community setting. Summer and winter field schools offer students the chance to live and learn on the land in a variety of academic areas, education, Indigenous Knowledge, international Indigenous Peoples, studying and being immersed in the learning while enjoying the relationship with the natural environment.

Study Abroad Opportunities

International study opportunities are available to obtain experience and education in a practical and academic setting. Study in Mexico or U.S.A. and learn about Indigenous Peoples of North America or the Indigenous Peoples of Mexico and how we are working together to contribute to the improvement of conditions for Indigenous Peoples the world over.

Practicums and Reading Courses encourage students to take their areas of personal interest to new levels of understanding and knowledge under the guidance and supervision of community members and Indigenous Studies faculty. These important Practicum opportunities provide students with practical job experience and training in positions of responsibility and also allow us individually and collectively, the opportunity to give back to the community through providing helpers to community initiatives.

Support from the First Peoples House of Learning (FPHL)

Cultural Advisor/Counselor - Betty Carr-Braint is available for consultation by students, staff and faculty with regards to matters of cultural appropriateness, protocol, ceremony and other related matters. She is available to Indigenous students and to students in Indigenous Studies and can assist with issues regarding university life and academics as well as personal issues which may arise as a result of school or other life experiences. Pre-booked and drop-in appointments are available.

Student Success Coordinator - Shari Beaver supports student success and retention through intake, academic support assessment and academic planning.  She also provides personalized one-to-one appointments for Indigenous student academic success planning and determines appropriate referrals to all Trent student services programs.  Furthermore, Shari can provide you and your family with the information you need to obtain admission to Trent University as well as the tools needed for the transfer from home to life at school.

Trent University Native Association (TUNA)

Since 1969 TUNA has provided a voice for Indigenous students within the Trent community. It is organized by, for and about Trent’s Indigenous student population. Various cultural, social and recreational events take place throughout the year and provide a forum to discuss and deal with issues affecting Indigenous peoples. 
Email: tuna@trentu.ca