First Nations science grad a first for UCFV

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Juggling school, work, and family life were difficult challenges for Christine Sitting Eagle, who recently became the first student of First Nations descent to earn a Bachelor of Science degree at the University College of the Fraser Valley.

But, as she likes to remind people, she had role models. Her parents, Steven and Gwen Point, were among the first generation of Sto:lo people to pursue higher education.

"I feel good about what I've accomplished, but not as proud as I am of what my mum and dad did. When they were going to university, the percentage of First Nations students was so small! It's true I was scared about being the only First Nations person in my class, but then I'd think about how my dad was so brave to step forward and do what he wanted to do and go to law school."

It wasn't just her parents' courage that Christine admired. They also showed by example how to balance the demands of school and family.

Attending university college classes in which she was the only First Nations student. Christine had to leave her five-month-old baby when she first started post-secondary at the age of 19.

"My parents were both in school starting when I was in Grade 2. I knew that they were able to do it, and I knew that I wanted to, so I thought I might as well do it now as when I'm 30."

The hardest part was leaving her son, Tyrone, with a babysitter.

"My mum had to practically push me out the door the first day. I knew I wanted to go to school, but it was still very hard to leave my baby."

UCFV became a family affair for Christine. Her husband, Tyrone Sr., joined her at the university college while studying to be a teacher. Tyrone Jr., 5, has been at the UCFV daycare since before he turned two.

Christine enjoyed her science studies, and plans to become a teacher. She has applied to the teacher training program at Simon Fraser University.

"I've been working with students in the Abbotsford and Langley school districts, sharing Sto:lo and other First Nations culture, and I've really enjoyed that so I think teaching's a good goal for me."

Barbara Moon, one of Christine's professors, agrees.

"Christine is very well-liked by both students and staff. As a student she demonstrated a well-rounded knowledge of biology, and an interest in achieving deep understanding and empathy for the natural world. Her engaging personality and ability to work well in groups should stand her in good stead as an educator. I believe that she has the makings of a fine teacher."

Both Christine and her husband Tyrone are very involved in cultural activities. They both do their traditional dancing and make their own regalia for this for powwows where Christine does her Sto:lo traditional dancing while Tyrone does the traditional dances of the Sisika Nation of Alberta.