Joy Davis is a proud Anishnaabekwe, part of the Bear Clan and a shawl dancer who comes from Alderville First Nation. Enrolling in Indigenous Studies at Trent University has changed her life profoundly.

“Trent has made me the person I am today,” she says. “I know it’s cheesy but it honestly has changed me completely. I have learned more Anishnaabemowin at Trent, than ever before. I have been surrounded by strong Indigenous professors, faculty and students who taught me about different views and encouraged me to use my voice as much as possible. I really found more of my culture here than I could have ever found at any other university.”

The 22-year-old, who is set to graduate in June with a joint major in Indigenous Studies and International Development, says she tried a larger school but transferred to Trent because she preferred a smaller, more personal experience that allowed her to feel closer to nature while studying on the banks of the Otonabee River.

She became heavily involved in extracurriculars, serving the Trent University Native Association (first as secretary and then as president in 2016), volunteering for the Seasoned Spoon Cafe, joining the rowing team and working with the First Peoples House of Learning as a tutor and an ambassador.

Ms. Davis is now ready to take on the world after graduating, as she prepares to apply to law school. In the meantime, she encourages all those who are interested in Indigenous Studies to strongly consider Trent.

“It’s the best decision they could make,” she says. “I would also encourage them to come and look at the campus. Trent University is unlike any university and a tour of the campus will give you that impression.”