Christoper Martin
From Navy Ship to Scholarship: Sobey School Fall Valedictorian Christopher Martin manages a Navy career and academic success
There is no such thing as a typical career path, and there is no such thing as a typical Sobey School of Business Student.
The Valedictorian for the Fall 2026 graduating class, Christopher Martin, grew up in Tremont, near Greenwood, Nova Scotia and graduated from West Kings District High School in 2009. He joined the Royal Canadian Navy, and, as part of his training to become a Marine Engineering Technician, he attended a year-long Marine Institute at Memorial University (NL).
As for so many others, COVID-19 was a catalyst for Christopher to consider a change. While working from home during the pandemic, he started taking part-time classes at Saint Mary’s University.
“I chose Saint Mary’s because of the prestige that is associated with the Sobey School of Business. I also had friends and family graduate from Saint Mary’s, and they all gave it a glowing recommendation.”
In 2024, Christopher was accepted into the military’s University Training Plan for Non-Commissioned Members, and he transitioned to a full-time student, majoring in General Business Studies. He now works as a Logistics Officer at CFB Halifax and has almost completed his initial trades training.
So, what helped Christopher, in his unique position, succeed?
“The academic advisors were a big help, they helped me choose a major, manage my classes and provided great recommendations and insights. I also took advantage of the PAS [Peer Academic Support] program for extra help in finance and accounting.”
“My advice to current students is to just do your best. If you don’t enjoy what you are learning, re-evaluate and find what you do enjoy. That will make learning both easier and more enjoyable.”
The academic experience was rewarding for this mature student. “I was lucky enough to take many interesting classes; the sports business and sustainable business classes, especially Economics of Sustainability, were some of my favorites as they connected interesting real-world examples to the topics and allowed for a large amount of freedom when doing projects.”
“I made the Dean’s List after my first year back and maintained that honour throughout my time at SMU. For someone who struggled with education in the past, this was a great personal achievement.”
Finally, Christopher noted some special professors really helped his learning journey.
“Paul Dixon had a very positive impact when I first entered full-time education. I enjoyed a few chats in his office, and the direction he gave me as I entered a new environment helped me find my way. Marie-Claire Robitaille and Joniada Milla created an interest in Economics I didn’t know I had, and their passion for their work was contagious.”
Christopher was awarded a Chrysler Canada scholarship, which he had to turn down as he graduated early. He’s looking ahead now to his future goals: “to become qualified in my new role, to use my new knowledge to the benefit of the Canadian Armed Forces and to redeploy or serve in a foreign posting.”
Fall Convocation takes place on Friday, November 13, 2026. Watch the ceremonies online via livestream and visit the graduation website for more information.