SOMBA K'E/YELLOWKNIFE
At the tail-end of Aurora College's nursing program, there is so much rushing around as practicums finish that one doesn't have time to think about graduating.

Aurora College Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates Carolyn Ridgley, left, Kendall Gall, Tanya Silke, Lori-Ann King, Merrill Cooper, Axelle Kearnan, Violca Memedi, Jocelyn Apps, Sasha Budd, Megan Paul, Lindsay Ohrling, and Valisa Aho celebrate during their convocation at the Explorer Hotel May 3. - photo courtesy of Mieke Cameron

At least, of course, until said graduate is standing in the Explorer Hotel wearing a blue robe with a beaded sash - then it becomes very surreal.

That is how Tanya Silke, a born-and-raised Yellowknifer who studied at Aurora College for five years, explained what it felt like to graduate with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

"Most of us had finished the final shifts for our practicum the day before and (throughout the program) you always have your running shoes on," said Silke.

She was one of 44 graduates that crossed the stage on May 3 to accept their hard-earned degrees and move into the next stages of their lives. Degrees were awarded in studies such as social work, business administration, adult education, early childhood development and more.

The graduates came from eight communities in the NWT, as well as the Yukon, B.C., Quebec and Newfoundland, according to a news release from the college.

Graduation ceremonies at the college's two other campuses in Fort Smith and Inuvik were also held this month.

Aurora College president Jane Arychuk attended the Yellowknife convocation and said she was proud of the Class of 2014.

"I applaud your courage to pursue your dreams and I congratulate you on this tremendous accomplishment," Arychuk stated in a news release.

"I also want to thank you for choosing Aurora College to achieve your goals. We are honoured to share this educational journey with you."

Staff and students were given rewards, including Silke, who received the Board of Governor's Student Leadership Award, which the board presented to her during the convocation.

The award goes to a student nominated by an instructor with reference letters from the community, and showcases leadership abilities and a knack for guiding fellow students in their studies.

"When my name was called for that, I was shocked. I didn't expect it," she said. "It felt really nice to be able to receive that award. Again, it just really shows Aurora College ... we're our own little community, the instructors get to know you."

During her time at the college, Silke said she most enjoyed the small community atmosphere created in the school.

"You're not just a nameless faceless number," she said. "You're very tight-knit, you're a family and the same with the instructors - they're amazing and supportive and they really push you in all the right ways."

While the nursing program was difficult, it also shaped her and changed her as she and her classmates worked their way through the program.

"It was very hard, very difficult, but so worthwhile, and certainly there was times when I felt like it would never end," said Silke. "It changes who you are as a person, the way you view things and the way you interact with people."

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