Building community and finding her passion
Joining a club and doing an independent research project helped Julie Niyitegeka navigate through her four-year university journey far from home.
From Rwanda, Julie attended an international high school near Victoria and was awarded an international student scholarship to pursue a Bachelor of Science, Major in Biology. After graduating in 2023, Julie began working as a Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Medical Technologist with NeuroLinks in Nanaimo.
Here’s how she built a supportive community for herself at VIU and discovered her desire for a career path that combines science with communication and human interaction.
Why did you choose VIU for your education?
I came for an interview with the international department and had a great conversation with the team. As an international student from Rwanda, I was worried about navigating a new community, but by the end of the day, I felt reassured that I could have a positive experience if I chose to attend. I had another option, but VIU was the right choice. I was especially excited about the small class sizes and I haven’t regretted my decision since.
How did your experience at VIU guide your career objectives?
In my second year, I took a few microbiology courses and realized it was the area I was most drawn to. That clarity guided my academic path from then on. In my final year, I completed an independent research project that helped me develop strong research skills and gain confidence in my abilities. I also gained insights into what I was passionate about and, just as crucially, what didn’t. That process of elimination was instrumental in shaping my understanding of the kind of work I wanted to pursue.
By the end of the research project, I had a clearer sense of direction. I realized that working in a microbiology lab long-term wasn’t the right fit for me. This realization led me to lean more towards psychology electives. I began thinking about a career path that combined science with communication and human interaction.
Tell us a bit about your experience at VIU.
I had a wonderful experience at VIU, and the University Christian Ministries student club quickly became a home away from home. It was where I formed genuine friendships and found a caring, supportive community. This made a huge difference as a new student in Nanaimo. The club provided opportunities to get involved on campus, including volunteering, joining the music team and developing both my musical and leadership skills. Most importantly, it allowed me to grow in my faith as a follower of Jesus, which was essential to maintaining my spiritual health – a key part of my well-being.
Can you share an experience where a professor made an impact on your learning experience?
Professor Dr. Andrew Loudon was always supportive and available to help. His applied microbiology course exposed me to both past and current research. I developed the ability to read scientific papers critically, extract key information and present it clearly. This experience significantly strengthened my research skills and helped shape me into a more capable researcher.
What are you most proud of since completing your program at VIU?
I’ve learned that my identity isn’t defined by what I produce, but by who I am at my core. I now live from the truth that I am already loved, whole, enough and strong. This shift has allowed me to pursue my goals from a place of security and acceptance, rather than striving to earn approval.
I recently published my first research paper. I’m also embracing my creative side and released an original song.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I see myself thriving in a supportive community, giving back and serving others with purpose. I find deep joy in building meaningful connections and creating spaces where people feel valued. I hope to be working in both Canada and my home country, Rwanda, contributing to the well-being of others. By then, I plan to be a fully qualified counsellor with a master’s degree, supporting individuals on their healing journeys.
What advice would you give someone following a similar trajectory as yourself?
Try to gain work experience early in your education. It can teach you more than you might expect and provide clarity for your future path.
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