First Generation High School and College Graduate: Kate Wedzin’s Aurora College Journey

Kate Wedzin – University and College Access Program – Class of 2017 & Office Administration Program – Class of 2020

Kate Wedzin is a proud first-generation high school and college graduate in her family and Aurora College played a big role in making that possible.

Hailing from Behchokǫ̀, Kate first completed the University and College Access Program (UCAP) at Aurora College in 2017. With a desire to develop real-world, practical skills that could be useful in the North, she enrolled in the Office Administration Program in 2018.

Graduating in 2020, Kate says the program equipped her for the workforce.

“It gave me the foundation I needed—software skills, office management, professional communication, and ethics,” she says. “These are all things I use every day in my job.”

Now a Junior Human Resource Officer with the Government of the Northwest Territories’ Department of Finance, Kate’s daily tasks include posting jobs, scheduling and conducting interviews, processing onboarding paperwork, and maintaining accurate HR records.

“I’m learning the fundamentals of human resource management within the unique context of the GNWT,” she says.

The Office Administration program’s focus on real-world application and problem solving was especially appealing to Kate during her time of study. She found particular value in the practicum component of the course, which allowed her to gain experience directly in the field. Her placement at Aurora College’s Finance Department led to a position as an Intern-Finance Officer, and later helped her transition into her current HR role.

“The hands-on experience helped shape my career,” she admits.

Kate encourages others considering the program to take advantage of the useful skills that can be learned.  

“Engage fully with the curriculum and your instructors, and take advantage of practicum placements—they can open real doors,” she advises.

From the classroom to a meaningful government career, Kate’s journey shows the power of accessible, skill-focused education in the North.

“Aurora College helped me build a career while staying close to home. The Office Administration program is a valuable investment for anyone looking to work in a professional environment here in the NWT.”