At the University of Lethbridge, Niihtaapookaa (Old Man River Child), Tatiana Weasel Moccasin has worked as a research assistant, travelled to Mexico for school, and embraced opportunities to enhance her creativity through creative writing and Indigenous art courses. Her future aspirations include becoming a teacher in Indigenous studies and language arts while continuing to advocate for Indigenous voices in education.
I have so many great experiences here at the University. I loved the friends I've made, the club I joined (All My Relations) and the amazing professors I've been honoured to work with.
Meet Tatiana | Creative. Hard worker. Confident.
Program: Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Education | Major: Indigenous Studies and Education
Why did you choose ULethbridge?
After working in childcare for a few years, I wanted to return to post-secondary and become a teacher. I heard that ULethbridge had an amazing education program, and also, the location was very convenient. I created a goal before coming to the University, and that goal has not changed.
Please tell us about your experiential or work-integrated learning at ULethbridge.
I worked as a research assistant for three years and had an opportunity to travel to Mexico for school.
Both experiences were amazing and taught me a lot.
My three takeaways from these experiences:
- Exploring and learning about how colonialism has affected many different Indigenous people across the world.
- Learning about my culture, language, and traditions is highly valuable and beneficial to my academic and personal journey.
- Being confident in using my own voice and creating space for myself, and other Indigenous people.
What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience so far?
I have so many great experiences here at the University. I loved the friends I've made, the club I joined (All My Relations) and the amazing professors I've been honoured to work with.
I think one of my most creative and memorable semesters was when I joined the creative writing course and an Indigenous art course. The creative writing course enhanced my creativity and passion for writing and inspired me to frame my future classroom similar to the one I was in. That class allowed me to share my very own piece of written work with my colleagues.
It also gave me the confidence and courage to share my own work at the open mic nights with my cousin. By the end of the semester, my perception of reading and writing completely changed.
On top of doing activities with creative writing I was also given an opportunity in my art course to do a mural.
The piece I did was a story about a Native girl named Kokonaan who endured a climb up Chief Mountain. The story itself was a self-reflection of my own journey and helped me to grow as a writer and artist.
How have your professors impacted your education?
Dr. David Kootnikoff from the Department of English created a warm welcoming environment that allowed me to express my creativity in writing safely. I loved that he motivated me to continue to reach for the stars and embrace my culture by sharing it with others through stories. His colourful outfits and passion for writing made the entire course very fulfilling and fun for all of us to enjoy.
I loved examining different pieces of writing that were done by my colleagues and authors and having discussions that were completely centred around writing.
The guest authors were inspiring to me because they let me know that one day, I could be a published writer like them.
Dr. Kootnikoff completely enhanced my creativity, and I will always thank him for that.
Tatiana is a builder of bridges and a living embodiment of Indigenous resurgence. – Dr. David Kootnikoff, Department of English
Is there anyone else who had an important influence on your ULethbridge experience?
My mother, my grandparents, and my family, without their constant support, I do not know where I would be right now. Each of them has inspired me to graduate and continue exploring the world.
My friends and the endless amounts of laughter and study sessions.
My former employer and professor, Dr. Michelle Hogue, and the Indigenous Student Success Certificate (ISSC) program. That program gave me the tools that I needed to be successful in University.
Have you received any scholarships and awards?
Lubov Alexandra de Grandmaison scholarship
Thank You for choosing me as a recipient; it has alleviated a lot of stress and has allowed me to focus on my studies.
What do you like to do in your free time?
To relieve my stress, I enjoy running and cooking for my family. My latest dish I made was Bannock Burgers and French Fries; during the summer I also made Bannock pizza. When I am alone, I enjoy sewing dresses or ribbon skirts and beading while watching movies, reading and writing.
During the summertime, I enjoy attending powwows and the annual Sundance that is held at the Blood Reserve.
What are your hopes/plans for the future?
My goal is to graduate from the University with my Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Education in Indigenous Studies and Education. After graduation, I hope to travel to a different country and work as a teacher teaching Indigenous studies and language arts.
What advice would you like to give those about to begin their journey at ULethbridge?
- Be confident in yourself and use your voice during class discussions, and assignments.
- Don't be afraid to take a mental health break from assignments or readings. Time management skills are important.
- Create connections and communicate with your peers and colleagues.
Is there anything else you want to share with us about your decision to pursue a university degree?
Having a good mindset has allowed me to have a positive attitude towards my academic journey. Many obstacles have been part of my academic journey, but remembering my goal keeps me motivated to finish my degree.
Quick Answers
Favourite class: Creative Writing
Favourite social activity at ULethbridge: All My Relations activities
Favourite place to study: Science Building or Library
Photos submitted by Tatiana
About Shining Students
Shining Students engage inside and outside of the classroom. What makes a student shine may differ from person to person, but they all share a passion for learning. They may be top students, involved in an innovative project, participating in ground-breaking research, playing Pronghorn athletics, fighting for social issues or all of the above! When students find something they enjoy and combine it with what they are good at, they shine.
Each year, the Faculty of Arts & Science's faculty and staff nominate students who exemplify the ULethbridge student spirit. Congratulations Tatiana!