Ready to share her research

When Heather Finlay decided to pursue her Master of Education in Special Education, she knew VIU was the place to do it.

“I had done my teaching program with VIU and they were so supportive throughout,” she says. “When I decided to go back to school to complete my masters, I knew that VIU would be a good fit for me.”

Now, having graduated this past June, Heather says she is excited to share her research with others.

She is also this year’s recipient of this year's Governor General’s Academic Gold Medal award. The annual award recognizes the student who has achieved the highest academic standing upon graduation from a VIU master’s degree program.

We caught up with Heather to get her thoughts on the program, the award, and her overall experience at VIU.

What drew you to pursue your Master of Education at VIU?

I had done my teaching program with VIU and they were so supportive throughout. The team of people at VIU want you to succeed in a way that works for you. When I decided to go back to school to complete my masters, I knew that VIU would be a good fit for me. 

What does receiving this award and recognition mean to you?

I was so surprised to receive this award. Honestly, I feel like it could have gone to so many people. Completing a Masters Thesis is a lot of work. It meant a great deal to me that VIU chose me as the recipient. It was really special to share the award with the family and friends who supported me on this journey.

Were there any particular challenges you faced during your studies or otherwise, and how did you overcome them?

I would say the biggest challenge was finding a balance between school, work, family, and friends. I am so fortunate to have a wonderful community of supports. My husband and our parents were critical in getting me through. I also had such a supportive cohort who were always there to answer questions, share in a laugh, or to bounce ideas of each other. I also learned a lot about asking for help when I need it and letting go of some things.

What’s next for you, education or career-wise, or both?

I’m really excited to share my research with others. What I have learned through my research has been so enriching to me as an inclusion support teacher and I have a couple projects planned for next school year to put some of my research into action. I have promised my family that I’ll take a little break from school but you never know what will happen in the future. 

How do feel your time at VIU helped in your path towards achieving this goal?

As I mentioned above, VIU is such an incredibly supportive team. Our program supervisor Dr. Bob Esliger developed such a supportive learning community even though we began our Masters program online together throughout the pandemic. I think this was so important to the success of so many in our program. Dr. Mary Ann Richards, my thesis supervisor was as essential in this journey. She provided patient guidance and thoughtful feedback throughout my research. I learned so much from her. 

What was the highlight of your time at VIU, and what has been the biggest takeaway? 

My highlight has been the people. I know I’ve repeated this sentiment many times but again it was the community of supports that got me through. I think this is important to know as a masters student because it can be an isolating and lonely experience. It is good to remember that you are not in it alone.

Anything else you would like to add?

I want to thank all of the above people for all of their support and love. I really do share this award with all of them.