Meet your 2025 valedictorians
Bree Sinnott’s learning path wasn’t linear. The Bachelor of Education grad explored several academic directions before finding one that resonated with her. Finding one that aligns with her passion and values has provided Bree with clarity and purpose for her next chapter as an educator. She hopes to get teaching positions in high school science and outdoor education.
As part of our series highlighting VIU’s 2025 valedictorians leading up to convocation on June 9 and 10, we caught up with Bree to learn why she decided to attend VIU and what she loved about her experience. Bree is co-valedictorian with Paige Pierce for the June 10 morning ceremony.
Why did you choose VIU?
I chose VIU because the smaller school environment made it easy to feel supported, both by faculty and within the program. I appreciated building genuine connections with instructors and peers. Plus, the coastal setting was a huge draw. Having access to nature through my front door to places like Blueback Beach and Cable Bay while still being able to take day trips to Ucluelet, Mount Washington and Port Renfrew made it an ideal location to explore beyond academics.
Can you share a highlight from your time at VIU?
I’ve loved being part of a cohort beginning in year three of the program. Coming into a close-knit group at that stage could have felt daunting, but instead, it was incredibly uplifting. There’s something special about moving through the same challenges and celebrations alongside peers who understand exactly what you’re going through. It creates an atmosphere of mutual encouragement, empathy and growth. Being surrounded by fellow aspiring educators who share both your passion and your growing pains cultivates a strong sense of community, one that I know will last well beyond graduation. I feel grateful knowing that I’ll always have this network of thoughtful, dedicated professionals to lean on, share resources with and exchange ideas as we all continue to evolve in our careers.
What are you most proud of achieving since you began your studies?
I’m incredibly proud to have completed my degree, especially because the path to get here wasn’t linear. I explored a few different academic directions before finding one that truly resonated with me, so reaching this point feels especially meaningful. It’s affirming to know that I’ve landed somewhere that aligns with my passions and values, and I’m excited to carry that clarity and purpose into the next chapter.
What is one thing your fellow students may remember about you after graduation?
I hope my peers remember me as someone who genuinely cared about building community –someone who loves to collaborate, laugh or lend support when things are tough. I value the relationships we built along the way and I always tried to create a space where people felt seen, included and encouraged.
What advice would you give students following a similar trajectory as yourself?
My biggest piece of advice is cliché, but it’s to trust the process, even when it feels uncertain. It’s okay if things don’t unfold exactly how you expected – sometimes the most meaningful growth comes from moments of redirection. Don’t be afraid to pivot, to try something new or to let go of a path that no longer fits. Every experience, even the ones that don’t work out, helps you better understand what matters to you. Be patient with yourself, stay open and know that it’s never too late to find what truly clicks.
Can you give us three random facts about yourself?
- I have a four-year-old dog called Dewey
- I am an amateur ornithologist
- Before this degree, I was the Event Operations Coordinator with Vancouver Whitecaps FC
What’s next for you?
I’m currently applying for teaching positions in high school science and outdoor education, and I’m looking forward to stepping into the classroom in a teacher-on-call capacity. At the same time, I’m also exploring opportunities to get involved in curriculum development, especially in areas connected to environmental and conservation sciences. I’m excited to see how I can contribute both inside and outside the classroom, helping to inspire curiosity and care for the natural world in the next generation.
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