BU grads jumpstart careers before convocation

The tassels have barely been turned, but for some of Brandon University’s Class of 2025, the journey into professional life began well before last week’s convocation ceremonies.

From international students to mature learners returning after a long break, these graduates aren’t just celebrating degrees, they’re celebrating dreams already set in motion.

Renata Truelove, the valedictorian from the Faculty of Arts, delivered a heartfelt address that resonated with many students navigating uncertainty. Truelove, who returned to school at 34 after a long break to raise children and work various jobs, including at an art gallery, found her calling in art therapy.

“I had a lot of fear coming back to school,” she said. “But I’ve loved every minute of it.” Her work through a co-op project involving art and mental health research reinforced her ambition to pursue a graduate program in art therapy.

“The experience showed me that I don’t have to have everything figured out. You just start walking, and things fall into place.”

For Tolulope Oke, the journey to Brandon University started in Dubai. Oke left her job there to pursue a degree in business administration in 2021. By her second year, she landed a dream job at one of the top five Canadian banks, where she’s now worked for three years while completing his studies.

“It’s been a journey of faith and determination,” he said. “Now I’m ready to continue my career in banking and see where it takes me.”

International student Ayushi Patel credits Brandon’s co-op program for her smooth transition from school to full-time employment at MNP, a major accounting and consulting firm.

“It was unexpected, I got my co-op placement in February, which is off-season, and it turned into a full-time job,” she told the Sun.

With roots in Kenya and family in Brandon, Patel now looks ahead to earning her CPA designation. “I want to help businesses grow. Many don’t fully understand the industries they operate in, and that’s where I want to make a difference.”

Political science major Brody Burr describes his graduation as “bittersweet,” a celebration of accomplishments and a doorway to future ambition. His co-op at EPP Law affirmed his desire to pursue law school.

“The co-op gave me a head start, a way to apply what I learned and see what the real work environment looks like,” Burr told the Sun. “It’s already helped me feel prepared for what comes next.”

Josephine Nicholson’s path wasn’t linear. After high school, she took four years off before returning to finish her degree in psychology. Her co-op with Child and Family Services, while initially aligned with her goal of social work, ultimately helped her realize a different calling.

“I found out social work wasn’t for me, and that clarity was invaluable,” she said. Josephine is headed to the University of Manitoba this fall for a master’s in brain and cognitive science, with aspirations to eventually teach and conduct research, possibly at Brandon University someday.

America Rodrigue, who earned a BA in sociology with a minor in psychology and a certificate in justice studies, is already immersed in the legal field. Her co-op at Birch Law transitioned seamlessly into a full-time job.

“I never thought a summer co-op would turn into something permanent,” Rodrigue said. “Now, I’m on track to work as a paralegal. It feels great to be helping people navigate the legal system.”

Many of these graduates pointed to Brandon University’s co-op program as a transformative element in their education, providing real-world experience, industry insight, and in many cases, early job offers.

Cora Dupuis, a co-op coordinator frequently mentioned by name, was a consistent force behind these success stories, helping students forge community connections and unlock career opportunities.

This year’s convocation wasn’t just a moment of celebration, it was a milestone in momentum. As Truelove poignantly said in her valedictory address, “You don’t have to have it all figured out to begin. Show up imperfectly and authentically, you are still deserving of success.”

» aodutola@brandonsun.com

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