Lana Kulak (right) and her daughter, Gerri Basaraba, attending class together at Yorkton’s Suncrest College through the University of Saskatchewan’s flexible learning program. (Photo: Matt Smith)
Lana Kulak (right) and her daughter, Gerri Basaraba, attending class together at Yorkton’s Suncrest College through the University of Saskatchewan’s flexible learning options. (Photo: Matt Smith)

All in the family: USask flexible learning that fits a family’s life

Mother and daughter experience the benefits of flexible learning options at the University of Saskatchewan (USask).

By Darla Read

Lana Kulak and her daughter, Gerri Basaraba, are pursuing their dreams of becoming nurses at the University of Saskatchewan (USask), thanks to being able to study closer to home.

For Kulak, her dream of becoming a nurse began 25 years ago, and now that her seven daughters are in school full-time, she said it was time to do something for herself.

“When I saw a poster for a three-month ‘Intro to Healthcare’ program offered at Suncrest College in Kamsack, I immediately applied, was accepted, and finished at the top of my class.”

Kulak then met with an inspiring student advisor who guided her and helped her submit her application to the College Arts and Science with the eventual goal of entering the College of Nursing.

“The moment I hit the submit button, I cried tears of joy, knowing I was finally on the path to fulfilling my lifelong dream.”

Now Kulak and Basaraba, who are from the Cote First Nation, are enrolled in classes together at Yorkton’s Suncrest College.

Lana Kulak (right) and her daughter, Gerri Basaraba, attending class together at Yorkton’s Suncrest College through the University of Saskatchewan’s flexible learning program. (Photo: Matt Smith)
Mother Lana Kulak and her daughter, Gerri Basaraba (back left) are making the most of the University of Saskatchewan’s flexible learning options. (Photo: Matt Smith)

Basaraba said studying at a USask-affiliated regional college is ideal because of small class sizes, making it easier to receive one-on-one support from professors and to build relationships with classmates. Due to health issues, she has frequent doctor appointments, both of which are easier to manage with the support of nearby family and friends.

“I would definitely recommend students explore flexible learning opportunities, especially if they are balancing health concerns, work, or personal responsibilities.”

Lana Kulak (right) and her daughter, Gerri Basaraba, attending class together at Yorkton’s Suncrest College through the University of Saskatchewan’s flexible learning program. (Photo: Matt Smith)
With all of her daughters now in school, Lana Kulak has returned to class herself as she studies to become a nurse through USask’s flexible learning options. (Photo: Matt Smith)

Studying close to home is also incredibly important to Basaraba’s mother, who said growing up in a small town meant moving to a city never felt like an option – and especially not now with a large family.

“With seven daughters – six of whom are still in grade school – I am able to remain actively involved in their lives,” Kulak explains. “Being able to study close to home means I can advance my education without sacrificing my role as a present and supportive parent.”

Currently, nearly 20 per cent of USask classes are offered in a flexible mode, whether that is study duration, location, or instructional method. Students can take advantage of blended, online, and self-paced courses in addition to traditional classroom settings. They can also enrol at regional colleges like Kulak and Basaraba did.

“Enabling access to quality programming through flexible learning is a strategic priority for USask,” said Dr. Nancy Turner (PhD), interim associate provost, Teaching Innovation and Strategic Initiatives. “This priority has led to a steady increase in USask’s flexible offerings, providing opportunities for learners from across the province to pursue a USask credential in ways that suit their preferences and needs.”

For Basaraba, it’s been a long-time goal to get to university.

Lana Kulak (right) and her daughter, Gerri Basaraba, attending class together at Yorkton’s Suncrest College through the University of Saskatchewan’s flexible learning program. (Photo: Matt Smith)
Gerri Basaraba said studying university courses with her mother Lana is incredibly special. (Photo: Matt Smith)

“Growing up was hard,” she said, because a lot of people told her, “There’s no way you’re going to get off your reserve and go to university. You do not see Indigenous people at universities.

“Hearing this as a child made me feel discouraged and not heard, like my dreams were already being limited before I even had a chance to try.”

Basaraba was not deterred and was instead motivated by the discrimination she faced.

“Comments like that highlight why representation matters, and why it’s important for Indigenous students to be visible and heard in post-secondary education,” she said.

“I am proud to be Indigenous, and pursuing higher education is a way for me to challenge those stereotypes, creating a voice for Indigenous students, saying that we absolutely belong in academic spaces.”

Additionally, Basaraba said attending school with her mom is special.

“Learning together, supporting each other, and sharing the same classes has deepened my appreciation for my mother’s strength and resilience,” Basaraba said.

“I know my mother had a hard childhood and had to put her life on hold when she had me. She had to make a lot of sacrifices so that I could have a better life, often putting my needs before her own. Being able to attend school together makes me feel incredibly special and emotional, because it represents a full circle moment for both of us.”

Students interested in exploring flexible options can visit USask’s website.