Wawatay – Transforming Indigenous students’ talent and ambition into success in science – UM Today News
September 26, 2025
Wawatay (Anishinaabe for Northern Lights) offers First Nations, Métis and Inuit students the chance to integrate Indigenous ways of knowing into their science degree, while also providing hands-on research and experiential learning opportunities.
Wawatay’s summer orientation offers an enriching experience from engaging campus tours to exciting icebreakers and social events. Students will have plenty of opportunities to connect with their peers while enjoying a variety of food options. Throughout orientation, they explore key campus landmarks like research labs, Buller Greenhouse, libraries, Lockhart Planetarium and the Indigenous Student Centre. They develop essential skills in writing and oral presentation and learn about all of the resources available to them on campus.
“Wawatay orientation is about coming together as a community and creating community for students. It is a chance for students to connect with one another, meet the Indigenous community at the UM, and meet mentors. They also have the opportunity to take part in activities that root us in both culture and science. We hope students leave orientation knowing that they have a strong circle of support around them and feeling ready to begin their academic journey with confidence”, Melanie Lalonde, Wawatay Program Development Specialist.
