Why did you choose UCN?
I chose UCN because it was very convenient for me to attend. I’ve lived in The Pas, Manitoba, my entire life and have a family of my own. Attending UCN in The Pas allowed me to pursue my education while balancing my family and other responsibilities.
Did you know what you wanted to take at UCN?
Yes, I’ve always known what I wanted to go back to school for. Since I was a teenager, I have always wanted to take Business Administration as an Accounting major.
How have your professors and instructors impacted your time at UCN?
My professors and instructors have had a big impact on my time at UCN. They were always so helpful, understanding and supportive when situations would arise. If I was unsure about an assignment or course material, they always took the time to explain it and ensure I fully understood what was expected.
What was your most memorable experience during your time at UCN?
My most memorable experience was our accounting class trip we took to Calgary, Alberta, for the Western Canada Accounting Competition 2026. It was an incredible opportunity and an experience that I will remember for a very long time.
What is the most important lesson you have learned during your time at UCN?
My most important lesson I learned while at UCN is that it is never too late to invest in yourself and your future. Returning to school taught me the importance of believing in myself, stepping out of my comfort zone and pursuing my goals regardless of the age I started at.
What are you most proud of accomplishing during your time at UCN?
My biggest accomplishment is my academic performance. I am currently sitting at a GPA of 4.22 before my final mark for my last course is added. I am confident that my final GPA will remain around 4.2 when my final grade is released on June 8, 2026.
How does it feel to be graduating?
Graduating feels amazing. It is a huge accomplishment and I’m so proud that I finally took the step to return to school and pursue something that I had always wanted to do.
What’s next for you? Tell us your hopes and plans!
My next steps are working full-time as a Finance Officer with the Manitoba Metis Federation, The Pas Region, while pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree as a part-time student beginning in September 2026.
What advice would you give somebody who’s just starting out at UCN?
Study, study, study. Do not let your work pile up because it will only create stress. Stay on top of your assignments, meet your deadlines and never be afraid to ask for more help if needed. The instructors are amazing, and they are there to support you; they want you to succeed. During my first year, I practically lived at the school because I knew I had to stay focused and committed to my goals.
Message for family, friends, and instructors?
A special thank you to my partner, Journey, for being so understanding and so supportive, with all the long hours I spent at school studying and completing assignments. Thank you for stepping in and helping with our daughter so I could focus on my education. To my family and friends, thank you for encouraging me to keep going when things became difficult, and I felt like giving up. You believed in me and supported me throughout the two years has helped me push through challenges I didn’t think I could do. To my instructors, thank you for always going above and beyond to help not only me, but our entire class. Your guidance, patience, and dedication played a significant role in our success. Once again, thank you to every single one of you for your support, help, guidance, and encouragement throughout this journey. I truly could not have done it without each and every one of you. I am incredibly grateful!! Ekosi, Brooke Wilson
