Brent Peekeekoot
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
When I was in high school I realized I wanted to study Architecture. At some point near high school graduation I was guided by the school career counsellor to determine a degree close to home that would help me pursue the master level of post-secondary education in the future. I studied Urban Planning at the University of Saskatchewan, ultimately believing that my career plan was to accomplish a master of Architecture degree. In hindsight prior to my university experience, I was aware that Saskatchewan did not have an undergraduate architecture program, and thus mentally prepared myself to spring to another province in due time to accomplish my career goals. Obtaining a graduate degree as I always understood is the desired outcome in life, and I still believe that this career journey is one of the most respectable ways to become a professional. A lot of scholars such as myself also choose to stay in the education system for as long as we can to learn as much as we possibly can.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
Ultimately Vancouver opened it's arms to me as soon as I realized it was a possible place to attend university. The support systems are very special. When I was in my undergraduate degree I was put into contact with UBC and U of M to talk to student counsellors to see how I would like both universities. I applied to various MArch programs in the country and realized how extra considerate the University of British Columbia is in it's delivery to accommodate Indigenous peoples from Canada. I experienced a lot of sincere affection from the UBC staff in many different departments. Vancouver is also a very scenic place to be. Vancouver is the complete picture of an urban and rural infinite landscape with the nature and city glamour. From what I experienced and understand, Vancouver is the place in the country trying hard to honour and accept the Indigenous world view and share a common ground of love and respect.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
I chose to attend the School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture at UBC mainly because the school and its staff believed in me from the beginning. It also helps that Vancouver is not too far away from home in rural Saskatchewan.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
How honest and direct one needs to be to aspire great success and freedom. I also realized how hard working people have to be able to find the secret to achieving harmony in a fast-paced urban world. It's a feeling I can't quite describe.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I really like the digital design media aspect of SALA curriculum, and I am looking forward to comprehensive studio in term 4 of year 2.
What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) in your future career?
Having the ability to grow more confident and just talk to people in general - networking. Also, being far away from my aging mother is tough, but I am improving my strength everyday.
How do you feel your program is preparing you for those challenges?
SALA is very advanced in all its design components. I had to learn and adapt a lot in my new chapter here at UBC. SALA is very generous to the students in terms of the extra services it provides and all the professional programs that are linked to SALA across the metropolitan and beyond.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
Maturity and experience. I now view my education with an open vision and aspire to use my imagination to reach for my goals.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I like to jog and listen to music.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Don't be afraid of failure. Once you're here in Vancouver studying at UBC, relax and know you've already made it. Work toward slowly finding the pieces of the harmony complex puzzle of mediating life.
