Dalhousie’s Transition Year Program (TYP) is starting its 56th year with a new director, a refreshed campus headquarters, and a new cohort of students eager to pursue their goals.
Incoming students participated in a two-day orientation earlier this month where they learned more about the program and the year ahead from Director Rachelle McKay, now just over 100 days into her role.
“It was wonderful getting to meet applicants in person to learn about their goals and motivations,” says McKay, who led the TYP interview process for applicants this year. “Many of the applicants were quite impressive.”
The TYP program — founded in 1970 by civil rights activist and future lawyer Burnley “Rocky” Jones, Mi'kmaq leader Noel Knockwood, and historian James Walker — focuses on helping Indigenous and African Nova Scotian students prepare for university.
This month’s orientation included a meet-and-greet with TYP instructors as well as a chance to hear from past graduates of the program, including Irvine Carvery, who was part of the first-ever TYP class in 1970.
“Always remember where you come from, draw strength from your community and take advantage of the rich resources available at Dalhousie — both academic and human resources,” said Carvery.
This year's incoming students. (Darcy MacPhail photo)
A renewed home
One of McKay’s first priorities as director this year was to upgrade the TYP house on LeMarchant Street over the summer, a project that went beyond a simple new coat of paint.
An old office was converted into a student lounge, where a mural titled “Origins” was created by Cedar Pictou, an artist whose parents attended TYP in the 1990s.
It has created a great sense of renewal for TYP staff and made the house an even more welcoming environment for our newest students.
A new food and snack pantry, kitchen table, and handmade curtains were also added to give the TYP office a warmer, homey feel.
“It has created a great sense of renewal for TYP staff and made the house an even more welcoming environment for our newest students,” says McKay.
Looking ahead
Déja Oliver, a graduate of Halifax West High School, first learned about the TYP from a guidance counsellor while she was in junior high and found out more from a cousin who went through the program. She’s now ready to use the program as a springboard for her academic and career goals.
“It’s been great getting to meet everyone and be part of a new community,” she says. “I’m very excited and eager to get to work.”
Déja Oliver. (Darcy MacPhail photo)
Once she graduates from the program, Déja hopes to continue her studies in Dalhousie’s School of Health Sciences and pursue a career as a diagnostic medical ultrasound technician.
“That’s been my dream for as long as I can remember,” she says.
Past graduates of the TYP have successfully pursued careers in medicine, law, architecture, social work, and other fields.
“This promises to be an exciting year ahead for TYP staff and students alike,” says McKay. “It will be exciting to see how these students realize their own potential.”