Hometown: Ile-a-la-Crosse, SK
Program: Primary Care Paramedic – Certificate
Dakota, a Métis man, says much of his success is due to the fact that Sask Polytech puts an emphasis on hands-on learning. But, he says, the friendships and fun moments are what really supported him through the ups and downs as he worked to achieve his career and educational goals.
"My good friend 'Mama Freeds' made school worth the while; with all the laughs and mistakes we made, I want to thank her for being there," says Dakota.
He fondly remembers participating in a Mogadishu Mile, in which he, along with his classmates, ran just over a mile carrying a dummy that was meant to be a patient.
"We tripped over each other the whole time," he says. "But we did not leave each other behind. We worked together as a team — as a family."
Now working for the Keewatin Regional Health Authority, Dakota puts his skills into action as he travels across the North as a primary care paramedic. He says he wouldn't change a thing about his time at school and that learning from his mistakes has helped him become a better medic.
"Fear has two meanings," he adds. "Face everything and rise, or, forget everything and run. With that being said, you can take the spotlight and become what you're destined for. So never give up."