Reimagining Higher Education in Canada

Reflections from 2024 3M National Student Fellows

Authors

  • Erin Richelle Acadia University
  • Basmah Hendy Dalhousie University

Abstract

Reimagining higher education in Canada requires collaboration with students as partners, yet student voices are often undervalued at the decision-making level. Recently receiving the 3M National Student Fellowship has given Erin and Basmah the opportunity to influence the Canadian landscape of higher education. Reflecting on their achievement, they recognize that students often have to prove themselves to be taken seriously. Erin and Basmah highlight their experiences navigating barriers to higher education in Atlantic Canada and share their framework combining mentorship and students as partners, showcase the importance of experiential learning and interdisciplinary education, and demonstrate the value of accessibility. This presentation will provide educators with tools to transform pedagogy into practice, and equip students with strategies to actualize their aspirations for higher education into reality.

Author Biographies

Erin Richelle, Acadia University

Erin Richelle is a recent graduate from Acadia University obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and was recently named a 2024 3M National Student Fellow. Leading up to this achievement, Erin actively sought out opportunities that would develop her leadership philosophy and push her outside of her comfort zone, such as participating in Acadia’s study abroad program, exploring practical applications within her field, and developing a food chemistry course (CHEM4733) now offered at Acadia. Her experiences have shaped her passion for trailblazing change in higher education systems as an individual, student, and leader.

Basmah Hendy, Dalhousie University

Basmah Hendy is a Neuroscience honors student at Dalhousie University. She is passionate about improving access to education for underrepresented students and has worked to develop a mentorship for high school students, improve the accessibility of science courses for visually impaired students, and organize student career workshops. Basmah also works as a teaching assistant at Dalhousie and collaborates closely with instructors to evaluate course structure, reimagine assessments, and improve student experiences. Most recently, she has been awarded the 3M National Student Fellowship for educational leadership and is working to improve postsecondary education on a national scale.

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Published

2024-12-14

Issue

Vol. 27 (2024)

Section

Abstracts

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