Supporting Indigenous success Through Career Mentorship: The Indigenous Career Mentor Program

The Indigenous Career Mentor Program launched in the fall of 2022 as an extension of Career Services already established Carer Mentor Program. This year, the Indigenous Career Mentor Program will profile the story of one  mentor each month from September to April. Interviews from our mentors will provide insight into Indigenous success, as well as how students can best prepare for navigating the transition from university to employment.

The Indigenous Career Mentor Program is an informational interviewing program that supports Indigenous students in gathering industry information. Indigenous mentors that meet with Indigenous students provide advice on how to navigate career opportunities and challenges, mentors may also share their personal experiences navigating their own career journeys.

Indigenous students can choose their mentors from the following fields of practice: Business & Administration, Health Care, Social Services & Education, Government Services, Science & Technology, Arts & Culture, and Recreation & Sports. To learn more about the Indigenous Career Mentor Program and register visit the program homepage.

November’s mentor of the month is Dr. Réal Carrière

What is your position title and where do you currently work?

Assistant Professor University of Manitoba Political Studies

Briefly describe what you do in your current occupation:

I research and teach Indigenous politics. My current research project focuses on Indigenous Political Representation.

What initially sparked your interest in the career you have chosen for yourself?

I had a really inspirational professor in my first year of university. Since that first class, I was hooked. I hope to be that inspiration for the next generation and especially Indigenous youth.

What are some lesser-known duties or work outcomes your role is responsible for that people may not be aware of?

I participate in the adjudication of a lot of awards at the University of Manitoba. Chances are if you got an award, I was involved in the process.

What do you enjoy most about your job? 

I used to enjoy teaching, but as I have progressed I enjoy more the relationships and mentorship that is developed between teacher and student. I try to be that inspirational teacher. I try to help students get the most out of themselves.

What are some changes you’ve experienced in your field, or changes you anticipate happening in the near future?

Covid has really changed students expectations and participation. Since Covid, students have changed how they interact in class. I really try to find ways to get student to interact. University is the best when you can learn from each other. Artificial Intelligence is another immergence issue. I do not have the solutions to that issue but I try to get students to really engage with the material. I want them to learn for themselves and not just use AI to do the work.

What are some strengths, specialties, and characteristics that are considered assets in your field?

Curiosity, creativity, organization, focus, and independent thinking are key assets in my field.

What is a piece of advice you would offer to Indigenous students interested entering your field?

My parents used to tell me that I should stay in school. I never really believed in them but slowly over time I kept going to school and now I have a great career. So I have two pieces of advice, listen to your parents and stay in school.

Are there any resources you feel could support Indigenous students interested in this career path?

You should always make time to connect to other Indigenous students. I think we have a great centre here to meet and connect with other Indigenous students. Take time to make those connections because other students can become your family, and having those strong family connections are important if you are living away from your family and community for the first time.

Within your industry or field, what are some related occupations that you interact with and/or find interesting?

Professors in politics are constantly being asked for their expertise. We can comment on elections. We can provide advice to the leaders of the country. Studying politics is a great career path because there are so many possibilities with an education in politics.

During your career journey what support(s), resource(s), and/or event(s) influenced your decision-making process?

I had a really influential professor when I was an undergraduate student. Making the time to say hello to your professors can make all the difference in your career. I also made the time to always connect with the Indigenous student centre. The students you meet there will become your community. I came to university from a small town so meeting other Indigenous students was the key to my success.

To meet with mentors like Dr. Réal Carrière, register for the Indigenous Career Mentor Program. Explore, connect and build confidence as you proceed in your career journey!

If you are an Indigenous professional interested in sharing your story and connecting with students, consider volunteering as a mentor in the Indigenous Career Mentor Program.

Career Services, Student Affairs