FORT SIMPSON - Three Samuel Hearne students returned home last month with medals earned at the annual Skills Canada Territorial competition in Yellowknife last month and a greater appreciation of their skills.

Samuel Hearne students Charmaine Norman-Goose and Matthew Dyck attended the annual Skills Canada Territorial competition in Yellowknife last month. The two said the experience was beneficial to their skills. - Dez Loreen/NNSL photo

Nicole Lindsay got a gold medal for cooking, Matthew Dyck got a bronze medal for graphic design and Charmaine Norman-Goose also received a bronze for hairstyling.

Dyck, a Grade 11 student, said for him the trip started early because he was on a small vacation.

"It was a great extended trip," he said.

Dyck said his category was challenging.

"Four of us came from Inuvik, with two others from Yellowknife," said Dyck.

He said the judges made their marks hard to reach.

"I came in third place with only 36 out of 100 as my score," said Dyck.

"I found out that first place didn't even have 50 on his project."

Dyck said his interest in graphic design came from both school and home.

"I took a course with Mr. Lord at the school," said Dyck.

"My girlfriend's brother is a graphic designer as well."

Dyck said he wants to talk with him about learning more about the craft.

"I want to work with him, maybe job-shadow him or something like that," said Dyck.

Dyck said the competition is a good way for students to learn and have fun.

"There's also time to shop and hang out with friends," said Dyck.

Norman-Goose said her time in Yellowknife was good for her too.

"There was seven of us competing, I placed third," she said.

Norman-Goose said she chose a hairstyle that was shorter than most other entries.

"Mine was really short, I spiked it up a bit," she said.

"I'd recommend this trip for any students looking for a fun time."