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Shamarr Bennette is loving life in Halifax, but he's eager to show his friends and family in Norman Wells what he's been learning.

Wrapping up his last year of a bachelor's degree in Commerce at Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia, he's already thinking about his next steps.

"I honestly enjoy the way how money works," he said. "Everything behind it — where did this dollar come from? What happens when I spend it? There's so much to it.

"I love numbers."

Halifax is a fun and welcoming place, said Bennette, who recommended Dalhousie as a great spot for Northerners to pursue post-secondary education.

He noted that while the school hosts around 20,000 students per year, it doesn't feel that way on the ground.

"It's such a community here, everyone's interconnected," he said. "I have friends in science, psychology, commerce, obviously, and all these different degrees.

"Everyone's willing to meet new people, not judge and just have fun. It's been great over the last four years — I've made a lot of connections. I have friends in Toronto, B.C., Alberta — even international connections."

Halifax is a wonderful place, said Bennette and he invites other Northerners to come see it for themselves.

In particular, he enjoys the warm and active summer months.

"I got the chance to stay last summer through my program," he said. "The summer is beautiful. Everyone is out and about walking their dogs, laying on the grass and the beach. It's the place to be, I think.

"The winters aren't as lovely, but it isn't as cold as Norman Wells. Lots of snow and slushy, but overall Halifax is a lovely city to live in with lovely people. You can always walk down to the waterfront and the boardwalk and go for a stroll.

"It's like a second home to me."

Once he's finished his final year of studies, Bennette said he wants to return to Norman Wells to work.

While he's not overly picky, he said he's hoping to find work in accounting or payroll.

Bennette thanked his friends and community for their support and for helping him get this far.

"I'll be heading back to the Northwest Territories for sure," he said. "I want to work and give back to the place that gave me so much. I don't think many can say they've been given this opportunity from the North.

"A big thanks for Joshua Earls," he added. "I was one of four kids who received the Sahtu Depot scholarship. 

"And obviously, a big shout out to my mom for having me and letting me pursue my dreams and aspirations."