My CBU Story: Meet Mya Trimm

For Mya Trimm of Albert Bridge, Nova Scotia, graduating from Cape Breton University this spring means more than just crossing the stage. It marks the culmination of a journey fueled by passion, perseverance and a deep-rooted commitment to public service.

Mya is completing her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, a program she chose for its flexibility and ability to integrate the many social sciences that sparked her interest. “Political Science, history, gender and women’s studies, CBU offered it all in a small, discussion-based format that worked really well for me,” says Mya.

Throughout her academic journey, Mya was supported by CBU’s close-knit community. Professors like Dr. Felix Odartey-Wellington and Dr. Jan Hancock were pivotal in her success, especially during her final year. “Without these two, I would not be graduating this spring,” she says. She also credits Dr. David Johnson’s Famous Trials class as a standout experience: “It combined my love for history, crime and law in the perfect balance.”

While she attended classes in person for most of her degree, Mya completed her final year remotely from Ottawa while working as an Atlantic Canada Advisor on Parliament Hill. “Living in Ottawa and working on the Hill was a career goal of mine and it came true in August 2024,” she says. “Thanks to Dr. Odartey-Wellington and Dr. Hancock, who went above and beyond to help me, I was able to study political events while literally sitting in the buildings where they were happening.”

Mya’s interest in politics began early in her life. From student councils to MP youth groups, to campaigning and interning, she worked her way toward her dream step by step. “One of my elementary school teachers once joked that I’d make a great Prime Minister someday, and I took that very seriously,” Mya laughs. “Politics is unpredictable, but for now I hope to continue working in it. It’s never the same day twice.”

Mya believes her CBU experience played a huge role in preparing her for the fast-paced world of federal politics. “CBU has this hometown feeling that reminds you to stay true to your roots. Even from Ottawa, I get to keep up my Cape Breton accent and advocate for Atlantic Canadians.”

As Mya looks ahead, she encourages students considering CBU to embrace its small-community atmosphere. “CBU really does feel like home. My success is thanks to the people who knew me and my passions, and helped me apply them to my degree.”

To her fellow Spring 2025 graduates, Mya offers a heartfelt message, “I’m proud of us all. From finishing high school during a pandemic to weathering blizzards and hurricanes, we’ve shown resilience and a strong sense of community. Best of luck in everything you do next.”

Congratulations to Mya and the entire Spring 2025 Graduating Class!