Larissa Peeteetuce

Larissa is convocating with a BDES in Industrial Design in the Spring of 2022, and took every opportunity presented to her during her degree to express her creativity and unique design style. From reflecting on how to incorporate Indigenous principles into her senior design projects to fighting through the isolation of the past few years, we're so proud of what Larissa has accomplished and look forward to seeing her future projects shine!

Did you overcome any struggles to get to University? If so, please describe as much as you are comfortable.

It was more so internal struggle, I had already completed a Bachelors of Science in Archaeology from U of C but I was drawn back to school by my interest in toy design. It was a big commitment and took a lot of consideration to go back and get another degree, especially since I would have to physically move cities and leave my family and friends.

Did you face any adversity while attending University? Please describe and explain how you overcame the adversity.

In my first year I felt isolated and out of place since I was an older student but also because learning design was so different from my previous university experience. It requires you to be vulnerable and introspective but also to have a tough skin when crit day comes along. Over my years at school I gradually became more open and comfortable. I also found great friends and participated in different social and cultural communities where I was able to gain confidence in myself.

What are some of the best things you learned during your time here?

I am grateful for everything I learned during my undergraduate studies, not only the vast applications of design but also learning a second language, taking dance classes, and attending fun activities put on by the FPH. I especially loved the virtual beading workshops during COVID, they really helped me reconnect with my cultural roots and break the isolation I felt during quarantine. This reconnection was really a break thru for me because I started to self-reflect on my design "style" and start to incorporate Indigenous principles into my senior design projects.

Do you have any advice to share with new or prospective students?

I would advise new and prospective students to try out all the random classes and events that peak their interests, you never know what you might end up liking and what effect it might have on your perspective. Also I would encourage more Indigenous students to go into design, it might be intimidating at first but you will really gain an enormous amount of skills that are extremely valuable. It is also a program that has an environment were cultural reflection and representation is encouraged in projects that are incredibly interesting.

What are your plans for the future?

I plan to continue in a career in design through freelance work but I also hope to publish one of my senior design projects, a table top game based on Indigenous storytelling. At the moment though I am still celebrating finishing my second undergraduate degree and enjoying my time off.