UQSUQTUUQ/GJOA HAVEN - Sharon Makkigak is one 17-year-old on the right side of the law.

RCMP summer student Sharon Makkigak of Gjoa Haven said the some of the best parts about her job so far are getting to don the uniform known around the world and volunteer for the community on Canada Day. - photo courtesy of Trina Sallerina

The Gjoa Haven resident began as an RCMP summer student on Canada Day this year.

Makkigak said she was inspired to send in her application for the summer job because she wanted "to help the youth, help the people (and to have) the experience."

The job was fun right from the start for Makkigak, who said one of her best experiences being an officer was her Day 1 assignment.

Makkigak's first task was to suit up in her red serge and serve free food to community members at Gjoa Haven's Canada Day barbecue, which she did with a smile.

Wearing the iconic red uniform for the first time was one of Makkigak's favourite parts of her unique summer job.

While Makkigak still has one year of school left before her high school graduation, she said she is keen on signing up to wear the red serge full time as a career.

She's already earned some real on-the-job experience this summer. In addition to answering the phones at the station and doing some paperwork, Makkigak said she also got a chance to shadow RCMP officers while they go out and take statements.

"It's a lot of fun – especially the learning part," she said.

And while Makkigak isn't ready to don the red uniform quite yet, she's made a big impression on her family and friends this summer.

"They're really proud," she said.