Kyle Brooks '11, B.A. Honours, Indigenous Studies, Keswick, Ontario

According to Kyle Brooks, “attending Trent University has been one of the best decisions I have made in my life.” As an Aboriginal student and graduate of Indigenous Studies, Kyle leaves Trent with a legacy of self-confidence, critical thinking and a deeper understanding of issues facing Indigenous communities.

“The Indigenous Studies program really challenges you to think outside of the box,” stated Kyle. “I was inspired to think about the issues affecting Indigenous people today and how I can help to make a difference for the Aboriginal people of Canada.” 

He feels the Indigenous Studies department and the First Peoples House of Learning have incredible faculty and staff that consistently demonstrate Trent’s commitment to excellence in Indigenous education.

“Professor Lynne Davis is incredibly wise and the learning pedagogy she uses in her class is really beneficial for understanding the course material,” said Kyle.  “I enjoyed everything about my academic program, from the professors to the subject material, in particular the high degree of freedom to research and learn what you want within Indigenous Studies.”

During his career at Trent, Kyle has been an avid intramural hockey player.  However, he describes his involvement with the Trent University Native Association as a treasured experience. “As an Aboriginal student, I was able to find a group of people with many similarities and interests that fostered a sense of home within the Trent community,” recalls Kyle.

In the fall Kyle will enroll in the Juris Doctor program within the Faculty of Law at the University of Ottawa. He hopes to study Aboriginal Law and Indigenous Legal Traditions and ultimately become a lawyer focusing on Aboriginal law.

Kyle feels his degree from Trent has piqued his interest in understanding Indigenous people’s own laws and how “law” and “justice” are conceptualized in different Indigenous worldviews.

“Indigenous Studies provides an enhanced education where you will be pushed to the best of your ability as a student,” stated Kyle.  “I couldn’t have chosen a better undergraduate program to prepare me both for law school and a career in law.”

Awards and Scholarships received at Trent University:

• Indspire Bursary (2014,2015)
• Trent University Aboriginal Bursary (2014,2015)