What brought you to UPEI? Why did you choose to study here?

I’m from Souris, Prince Edward Island, and I came to UPEI specifically for the Paramedicine degree program. After working as a paramedic for over 15 years, I reached a point where I wanted to explore new roles in the profession—roles beyond traditional ambulance work. I was interested in leadership, management, and corporate opportunities within paramedicine, but I knew I needed a strong academic foundation to move in that direction.

UPEI’s program stood out immediately. The course load was excellent, and the flexibility was unmatched. I could take summer courses, accelerated courses, or shift to part-time when needed. No matter what my work schedule looked like, I could balance it with my studies. That flexibility is ultimately what made earning a degree possible for me.

Another major factor was the availability of scholarships and bursaries. Every semester I’ve been enrolled, I’ve received some form of financial support, which has helped me stay motivated and continue progressing through the program.

What do you find unique and interesting about the Paramedicine degree program?

What makes this program truly unique is how specialized and interconnected it is. Some of my professors are physicians I work alongside in the field—people I bring patients to every day. Having them become my instructors strengthened those professional relationships and gave me a deeper appreciation for how our roles complement each other.

I also appreciate how professors I hadn’t met before made an effort to connect classroom learning with real clinical practice. Their willingness to understand the paramedic perspective made the learning experience richer. Several professors have even told me they’re always excited when a paramedicine student is in the room because we bring such a distinct lens to discussions.

What kinds of support have you received as a student from UPEI students, staff, and faculty?

The support I’ve received has been exceptional. Professors have been understanding, flexible, and genuinely invested in my success—especially during major life events. I actually gave birth twice while studying at UPEI, and the faculty made the process incredibly manageable. Their compassion and willingness to work with me made all the difference. Staff and advisors have also been helpful with planning, navigating course loads, and ensuring I stayed on track.

"After working as a paramedic for over 15 years, I reached a point where I wanted to explore new roles in the profession—roles beyond traditional ambulance work. I was interested in leadership, management, and corporate opportunities within paramedicine, but I knew I needed a strong academic foundation to move in that direction."

One thing worth mentioning is how empowering it has been to return to school as a mature student and feel not only welcomed but valued. The diversity of ages and backgrounds in the classroom enriched my learning experience and made me feel like I belonged from day one. I expected to be surrounded mostly by younger classmates, but that wasn’t the case at all. My classes have included a wide range of ages and backgrounds, which created a comfortable and inclusive learning environment.

What’s unique about UPEI, and Prince Edward Island, in your experience?

UPEI has a close-knit, community feel that mirrors the island itself. You’re not just a number—you’re known, supported, and encouraged. The smaller class sizes and approachable faculty make it easy to build meaningful connections.

Prince Edward Island adds to that experience with its sense of community, slower pace, and supportive environment. It’s a place where you can focus on your education while still feeling grounded and connected.

What would you tell a student considering the Paramedicine degree program at UPEI?

This program is absolutely worth it, and it has completely changed my life. If you’re looking to expand your career options, deepen your knowledge, or move into leadership or specialized roles, this degree opens doors you may not even realize exist.

The flexibility, the quality of instruction, and the support you receive make it an ideal choice for both new students and experienced paramedics looking to advance their careers.

How do you feel UPEI and the Paramedicine degree program are preparing you for your future?

UPEI has prepared me in ways I never expected. This year, I accepted a new position with Medavie Health Services—a role I wouldn’t have been able to pursue without this degree. I’ve also been accepted into the Master of Applied Health Research program, which is another opportunity that opened because of my experience at UPEI.

The program has strengthened my clinical knowledge, expanded my academic skills, and given me the confidence to pursue roles beyond frontline paramedicine. It has truly transformed my career path.