Growing up in a tiny Saskatchewan hamlet of 60 people, Emmanuelle (Emma) Epp experienced profound loss and upheaval early in life. Her oldest brother, Matthew, died of cancer in 2009. Her family then relocated to Vancouver Island, settling first in Parksville and later in Victoria.
These changes were difficult, and as a teenager Epp struggled with her mental health. The care she received during those years changed the course of her life. This spring, she graduates from UVic with a Bachelor of Child and Youth Care (CYC), ready to offer that same support to others.
What are your plans after graduation? Is it the path you envisioned for yourself growing up?
Becoming a child and youth care counsellor has been my dream since I was a kid. I was in and out of hospital settings as a teenager because of my struggles with mental health, and I kept noticing the people supporting me. I asked them what they studied, and many of them said CYC. My goal became to work in an inpatient or hospital setting, like the one I was in as a kid.
Was there a moment during your time at UVic when your confidence or sense of purpose shifted?
My purpose shifted when I recognized that my lived experiences with mental illness were not barriers, but strengths. I began to see how my empathy could positively impact others. This realization strengthened my confidence and affirmed my commitment to supporting young people, especially those who are marginalized or feel misunderstood.
Which course, instructor, or experience had the most meaningful impact on your academic or personal growth?
Courses that focused on trauma-informed practice, inclusion and advocacy reinforced my passion for creating equitable and neurodiversity-affirming environments. Professors like Angie Grey, Crystal James and Jin-Sun Yoon challenged me to reflect on my own experiences while equipping me with the skills to support others.
What activity or experience outside of the classroom meant the most to you?
Leaning on my support system was one of the most meaningful aspects of my journey. The encouragement of family, friends and peers helped me navigate academic pressures and personal challenges. Their support reminded me that success is not achieved alone.
What would you tell someone who is considering choosing UVic for their degree?
I would tell prospective students that UVic offers a supportive and enriching learning environment. The CYC program emphasizes hands-on experience, critical thinking and social justice. It’s a place where students are encouraged to grow both academically and personally. Here, differences are increasingly recognized as strengths.
As you graduate, what does this milestone represent?
I faced significant mental health challenges in high school that affected my grades and attendance. University once felt out of reach. Camosun College bridged that gap through the Community, Family and Child Studies diploma, giving me the foundation and confidence to continue. Arriving at UVic as a CYC student was a full-circle moment, and graduating represents my perseverance and growth.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
My post-secondary journey was not linear or easy, but it shaped me into the compassionate and resilient person I am today. Overcoming challenges related to mental health and neurodiversity taught me the importance of self-advocacy and support systems. I hope my story inspires others to reach out to their community and know they don’t have to do this alone.
