Stepping Into Your Own Life: Meet Amber AuCoin

For CBU student, Amber AuCoin, life has been a journey of self-discovery and inspiring others. Originally from Chéticamp, Amber has been working in the school and community sector for the last number of years. After leaving her previous role at the Provincial Committee of the Acadian Games, Nova Scotia, she began working as an Agente de Développement Scolaire Communautaire, or Community School Development Officer, at Centre Scolaire Étoile de l’Acadie in September, 2024. It was through these experiences and the people in her life that Amber found a passion for education and was inspired to continue her studies. 

CBU offered the perfect opportunity for Amber to make this dream a reality. Being so close to home and being able to participate in online courses allows her to continue working full-time, being a caring mom to four kids and a loving partner to her wife, Angie. “My favorite parts of CBU have been the fascinating courses, the incredible people I’ve met and how much I’ve learned about Mi’kmaw culture and history,” says Amber. “I’ve made core memories and gathered stories that will stay with me for the rest of my life.”

Becoming a French teacher has been Amber’s goal for a long time, and she will become the first in her family to obtain a university degree. Amber’s desire to specialize in French stems from her love of Acadian culture and the deep connection she feels to her community. “My love for Acadian culture is a big part of why I’m passionate about this path. French is more than just a language to me; it’s a connection to culture, music and community,” she says. “Cultural events, like the Jeux de l’Acadie, have helped me shape my own cultural identity as a French Nova Scotian and I want to help students find that for themselves too.”

Understanding the importance of visibility and support, Amber hopes to serve as a role model within the local school system, offering representation as a queer person in education. “When I embraced this part of myself, I found confidence and community. It was as if a weight had been lifted and I could fully step into my life,” says Amber. “I want to show people that it’s okay to take your time, figure things out and embrace who you are at your own pace. I want people to know they are valued, that there is so much love and support waiting for them. Each one of them can build a life full of love, success and joy, just like I have.”

Amber credits her strength and success to her family, as well as her experiences growing up in challenging circumstances. “My wife Angie, an educator herself, inspires me daily with her knowledge and work ethic,” says Amber.  “I want to show my kids that perseverance and hard work pay off.” She is also inspired by the resilience of her grandfather, who worked as a lobster fisherman until he was 80. “I draw immense strength from my Poppy, who worked as a lobster fisherman until he was 80,” says Amber.  “Yes, it’s a completely different field, but his work ethic and love for our family have always been guiding forces in my life.”

As Amber continues her studies and heads toward the completion of her Bachelor of Arts program, she has already been accepted into the Bachelor of Education program at CBU, inching closer to her goals. “The atmosphere at CBU has been so welcoming and supportive, with professors who go above and beyond to ensure students succeed,” says Amber. “That kind of support has made all the difference to me in this new journey.”

Amber’s story perfectly reflects the motto of CBU, perseverance will triumph. Overcoming great adversity in her youth, a long journey of self-discovery and now challenging herself as a mature student, her path has not been easy but she is well on her way to achieving her dreams.