UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN BRITISH COLUMBIA
A northern pathway to social work grounded in community and connection

That sense of connection has been shaped through courses intentionally rooted in place-based learning. During a week-long intensive course led by Lecturer Christa Sato last fall, the fourth-year students spent a week exploring the role social work plays in supporting human and community well-being in rural and remote settings.

The class visited a number of agencies and organizations in Terrace and the surrounding region, including K5T and Kulspai Learning Village Housing, The Garage Community Space, the Bluegrass Meadows Micro Village and the Ferry Island Municipal Campground. A downpour on the final day did not dampen enthusiasm for taking in the Skeena Valley Farmers Market as a way to support sustainable local initiatives. 

These experiences offered students meaningful opportunities to engage with community partners, deepen their understanding of local challenges and strengths, and reflect on what makes communities thrive.

"For me, the most memorable aspects of the Bachelor of Social Work program have been the exceptional guest speakers and the field trips," says student Susanne Morgan. "Each speaker and venue we visited contributed invaluable real-world experience, and integrating those practical insights with my academic studies made the entire education experience far more impactful."

As student representative for her cohort at the University's Northwest campus, the Gitxsan Matriarch has served as both an advocate and a source of encouragement. Returning to school after raising her family, Susanne says the program's regional delivery made it possible to pursue a long-held goal.

"I've been able to reach my educational goals without leaving my children for long periods and while continuing to fulfill my cultural responsibilities at home," says the 51-year-old from Anspayaxw (Kispiox), who now lives in New Hazelton. "My experience at UNBC has helped me reclaim my voice and confidence. Engaging in challenging classes that resonated with my background ultimately empowered me to articulate my truth."

Feeling empowered by the insights gained over the course of her degree and looking forward to a career working alongside the Gitxsan Nation, Susanne is motivated by the opportunity to give back. "I take great pride in serving my home and surrounding communities and giving back to the nation that has nurtured me since birth."

Susanne's experience reflects a broader theme echoed across the cohort: the importance of connection to place, to community and to each other.

"Having these supports is beneficial personally, but it's also important as we all go into our careers across the North we can always reach out to bounce ideas off each other."

Jennifer Connors, who lives in Kitimat, says those relationships have been one of the most meaningful parts of her experience. As a student living with a neurodevelopmental disorder, she also valued the program's small class sizes and flexible, accessible delivery.

For Meena Devi, the program aligned with her life as a new mother. 

"It was flexible and supportive, making it the right fit at the right time in my life," says Meena.

"The diversity of ages, cultures and life experiences meant I learned not only from my professors, but also from my peers."

Rochika Kumari's path to social work began after arriving in Canada from India in 2019. While working in retail, she noticed how often people's frustrations were rooted in deeper challenges.

"It inspired me to pursue a profession where I could truly support others," she says. "UNBC's focus on northern rural communities aligns with my passion for helping people and making a difference in places where resources are often limited."

Like her classmates, Rochika also underscores the importance of local access to education. "Many people in this region face financial or personal barriers that make relocating difficult, so having the program available in Terrace allows more students to pursue higher education close to home."

In her final year, Rochika was awarded the $9,000 Canadian Citizenship Celebration Scholarship from UNBC, greatly easing the financial pressure as she completed her degree.

"It also motivated me to keep working hard and reminded me that my efforts are recognized and valued," she adds. "I truly appreciate this award because it shows the University is committed to supporting students' success both academically and personally."

Already working at a transition house for women and children fleeing violence, Rochika says she has valued the opportunities throughout the program to connect with community and gain further understanding through people's lived experiences.

"The Bachelor of Social Work program's emphasis on compassion, inclusiveness and working with diverse groups really resonates with me because I believe those qualities are essential for creating meaningful change," she says. "As we graduate and begin working across the region, I think those values - and the connections we've built - will have a positive impact on the communities we serve."