“With knowledge comes responsibility.” It took me a couple of conversations to understand the implied meaning of these words but after spending 4 days with 60 Native American prospective graduate school students and the faculty of a program called Graduate Horizons, it sunk in. I met, conversed with, coached, and mentored an amazing group of people who understand the weight of knowledge – to effect change and make communities better.
Graduate Horizons is a program designed to help Native American students prepare for graduate school. Five days in Phoenix learning, conversing and acquiring an enhanced perspective about the Native American population was an experience I will never forget. The first day included a faculty orientation where as part of the Graduate Horizons faculty, I heard from professionals with extensive practical experience, research and leadership in the space. Dr. John Tippeconnic, an icon in the American Indian Studies area, talked with us about expectations and the importance of education for American Indians in general but specifically in regard to community progression. It was an honor to be a part of the audience. Probably the most impactful faculty connection I had was with Sweeney Windchief. Sweeney currently serves as Assistant Dean for Diversity at the University of Utah. He talked to faculty about unique social constructs for Native American students. It really opened my eyes to the way students navigate traditional western-centric education while remaining firmly within the Native American tradition. I heard it described as living in two worlds. He challenged us to think about education value within our communities or social constructs and use a metaphor to describe it. I’m still working on that one.
When the students arrived a day after the faculty, they were ready to get to work. They knew the days would be packed, literally from sun up to well past sun down. One of the students I worked with actually stayed up until 7:00am one morning revising his assignments because he wanted to submit quality work – and he did. Each day included work that addressed graduate school application awareness and area of focus exploration. Time spent with students was particularly enjoyable. I think what will stand out for me was Traditional Night where students shared on stage about their cultures. Each Nation and Tribe has its own particular culture. Contrary to popular stereotype, all American Indians are not the same. There were slide shows, movies (yes – actual professionally produced,) monologues and dances among other things. It was awe inspiring to see their work and hear their dreams. I was most touched with the level of commitment to their communities and the focus on helping their tribes. It truly was amazing.
Kellie Sauls
Associate Director of Admissions
