The future is bright as UCalgary offers free upgrading for Indigenous students

For many Indigenous students the first step towards university can be challenging to navigate. At University of Calgary Continuing Education, the Pre-Pathways to Education for Indigenous Students (PEISSA) program offers free upgrading courses for university admission. PEISSA is funded through the UCalgary Students' Union Quality Money Grant.

Funding from The PEISSA program has helped over 160 Indigenous students from Alberta and across Canada, including Dylan Giroux.

Making an impact

Dylan is a proud member of the Driftpile Cree Nation in Treaty 8 territory near Slave Lake, Alberta. He experienced firsthand the challenge many Indigenous students face when it comes to pursuing higher education: "Back home, there weren't many opportunities. I remember feeling stuck, like my dream of higher education was out of reach."

Back home, there weren't many opportunities. I remember feeling stuck, like my dream of higher education was out of reach.

When Dylan learned about the PEISSA program, it represented more than just an opportunity — it was a lifeline. "When I first heard about the program, I thought, this is my chance. It gave me access to valuable courses and support needed to succeed."

One of the strengths of the program, Dylan notes, is its flexibility. "The courses are offered online, which worked perfectly for my schedule and allowed me to work independently," he says. Support from instructors and program staff was swift and responsive, helping him navigate challenges smoothly. "Without their support, I would not have been successful," he says.

Dylan has completed three courses and is on track for a fourth, working toward prerequisites for his goal of applying to the University of Calgary's combined degree programs in finance and engineering. He stresses the importance of self-belief and perseverance; "You just have to be confident enough to try. If it doesn't work out, try again; fail forward."

Beyond academics, Dylan's journey is deeply rooted in community and legacy. He speaks with pride about his grandfather's work supporting residential school survivors and emphasizes the importance of honouring those who did not have the opportunities available today. "I'm here, and others like me are here, so we should do it for those who couldn't," he says.

Believe in yourself just a little bit more every day; a little effort can go a long way.

Dylan's advice for other Indigenous students and learners is clear: "Believe in yourself just a little bit more every day; a little effort can go a long way." He believes programs like PEISSA offer invaluable support but also recognizes that self-motivation is key. "The support is there — you just have to reach out and be willing to ask for help."

What is PEISSA?

The PEISSA program was developed to address a fundamental challenge that many students like Dylan face.

"In my opinion, one of the reasons why more Indigenous students don't apply to these programs, or The University of Calgary, is because they lack the support from their inner-circles, and ultimately themselves; with the PEISSA program, it made it easier to believe in myself," explains Dylan.

The program was made possible by the UCalgary Students Union Quality Money Grant, and has three pillars:

• allowing students to enrol based on their completed courses,
• providing pathways to upgrade prerequisites,
• and offering academic and cultural supports.

For Dylan, the program was transformational not just academically but personally. "I went from thinking higher-education was impossible for someone in my predicament, to realizing it is possible, and I can succeed. It's allowed me to be confident and hopeful for the future."

Learn more about the PEISSA program...