UBC-Okanagan’s graduation ceremony is an especially important occasion for one Kelowna family: a father and son pair is receiving their degrees together.
Paul Stephenson and his son Brian, 21, both graduated from the university with their PhD and BA, respectively, on Thursday.
“I’ve walked the stage before as an undergrad and grad,” said Paul, who received his PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies. “But to be involved in the same ceremony as my son, well, I have a huge amount of pride and appreciation for the experience. It was quite emotional.”
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Brian who received his degree in history plans to further his education this fall. He has been accepted into the law program at UBC Vancouver.
“I see education as a way to constantly challenge yourself and expand your boundaries. Variety in knowledge makes you more of a robust person, I think,” he said.
For Paul, the decision to pursue graduate studies at the Okanagan campus came down to timing and location.
“I had wanted to get my PhD for years, but when the kids were young I didn’t want to leave my family,” said Paul. “But when UBC’s Okanagan campus was established, I thought to myself, ‘this is it; this is my chance.’ “
He believes the shared student life brought the family closer.
“Learning is a way of staying excited, and really, a way of keeping a young outlook on life.”
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