Jordyn Goodleaf

“The bridging program is a great experience and eases you into university, which helps if you’re nervous about going.”

Jordyn Goodleaf is starting out on a new path. After successful completion of the Kaié:ri Nikawerá:ke Indigenous Bridging Program, she will soon transition into a Bachelor of Commerce program.

Why Concordia?

I chose Concordia because they had the Kaié:ri Nikawerá:ke Indigenous Bridging Program as an option. I felt that I needed extra support, and I wasn’t sure where to go when applying. I went to a vocational school for secretarial work, and I really enjoyed that. I wanted to further my education in business and the bridging program seemed like it was a good fit for me. I was super excited when I got in!

Looking back, how are you feeling about being at Concordia now versus the start?

Now I feel a lot better about being at Concordia, and more confident in my abilities with studying and school. In the first few weeks I was scared, but I had a lot of resources. Saba Din (coordinator of the bridging program) was a huge help. We do check-ins once a week. Having that time every week to reflect on my classes made everything good.

What made you feel more at home at Concordia?

The Otsenhákta Student Centre (OSC) is where I made most of my friendships. I feel grounded there, and it’s very welcoming. If I’m not in class, I’m usually at the OSC. There are great study spaces, including a quiet room.

Have there been any special moments so far?

We made ribbon skirts in the bridging program, which was a lot of fun to learn about in class. Outside of that, I made ribbon skirts with my friend at the Otsenhákta Student Centre. It was super fun, and I got to teach some people how to sew because I had done it in my class as well.

What are you planning to do with your Bachelor of Commerce degree?

I plan on moving to New York City one day. It’s not that I want to leave my community behind — I’ll always stay connected to my family and where I come from. But I also want to follow my dreams of living in a big city. I hope that by doing this, younger people can see that it’s possible to explore the world, pursue big goals and still stay grounded in who you are and where you come from.

Are you Indigenous and missing some prerequisites for admissions at Concordia? See if the Kaié:ri Nikawerá:ke Indigenous Bridging Program is right for you!