Indigenous Studies alumnus Kayla Christensen finds connection through land-based education

“I never learned so much as when I was learning with other people on the land,” says Kayla Christensen (BA, 2026) of her most memorable experiences as an Indigenous Studies major at Simon Fraser University (SFU). Christensen credits joining SFU Indigenous Studies’ Land-Based Field Course (INDG 435) as a turning point in her undergraduate career.

“I am from the We Wai Kai First Nation and I grew up in community. It was a big step to move away from home to attend university,” she reflects. While she faced challenges starting her degree during the often-isolating era of the pandemic, as she progressed through her academic journey, Christensen found that her outlook changed when she decided to step out of her comfort zone. Determined to make the most of her time as a student and gain new experiences, Christensen applied to participate in the Land-Based Field Course.

In May 2025, Christensen was thrilled to enrol in the course and make the trek to the Madii Lii culture camp, which is located within Luutkudziiwus (Gitxsan) Territories near Hazelton, BC. Led by Indigenous Studies associate professor Chelsey Armstrong, the Land-Based Field Course was designed in partnership with Wilp Luutkudziiwus (Gitxsan).

“It was two weeks straight in tents, and we were doing very intense activities outdoors together,” Christensen recalls of camping out while gaining hands-on experience with historical-ecological field methods.

Along with instruction and mentorship from Armstrong, Christensen appreciated the opportunity to learn from Gitxsan knowledge holders and land defenders. “It didn’t feel like a course because of how it was facilitated,” Christensen explains. “We built solid relationships with each other: the SFU students, Gitxsan community members, including Gitxsan university students, and those teaching us. It wasn’t my community, but everyone made it feel like home.”

Getting her hands dirty while supporting land-based defense initiatives inspired Christensen to declare minors in Archaeology and Geography to complement her Indigenous Studies major. “It was an amazing experience, and I wish I could do it 100 more times,” says Christensen, who later enrolled in field schools in Archaeology to continue building her skills.

Christensen returned from the Indigenous Studies Land-Based Field Course with a deeper appreciation for the power of putting herself out there. Getting involved with the Indigenous community on campus helped Christensen to feel connected. She especially enjoyed participating in the First Nations, Métis & Inuit Student Association (FNMISA) and regularly visiting the Indigenous Student Centre.

Christensen says her experience as a teaching assistant also provided opportunities to make a difference and get to know people. “I hope through sharing my knowledge, I can reach students who may not have expected to discover an interest in Indigenous Studies,” she reflects.

Through doing what she loves and getting involved in her community, Christensen has already launched a rewarding new career. As part of the We Wai Kai First Nation’s Guardians program, Christensen uses her skills to monitor cultural resources. “Getting my education is the best route to give back to my community,” she reflects. “I knew Indigenous Studies would be the best foundation to build upon.”