Why did you choose to study in the School of the Environment?
From a young age, I have been fascinated by the wonders of the natural world. Coming into university, I was unsure about what career path I wanted to pursue, so I took a variety of courses that piqued my interest. I fell in love with learning about the environment - how to protect it, the societal impacts that climate change causes, and what we can do moving forward into the future. I am so grateful that I decided to study with the School of the Environment, as I have learned so much and had so many opportunities at my fingertips. I am so grateful to have ended up where I am now, and I'm very excited for the future!
What is your favorite memory from your time with the School?
My favourite memory with the School of the Environment is being able to complete a work placement with a wonderful non-governmental organization through the School. Having hands-on experience in a professional work environment was so helpful and engaging, and really helped me narrow down what I want to do in the future. I am also extremely grateful for the wonderful friends I have made along the way that share my interests and values. The School of the Environment has provided me with so much - not only professional experience but also great friends!
How have you been affected by the global COVID-19 pandemic? What are your thoughts about the future?
I'm originally from Victoria, British Columbia, so I returned home when the pandemic hit in the spring of 2020. I ended up staying home for my entire third year before returning back to Toronto to finish my undergraduate degree. Being back home reminded me of what I was missing when I was studying in Toronto; great company with my family and friends, the beautiful natural environment, being close to the ocean, and the familiarity of my hometown. I realized that I had taken these things for granted - but being back home helped open my eyes and recognize how fortunate I really was, to have such a great place to call home, and also be able to explore new spaces in Toronto. However, I'm definitely very happy that I am able to finish off my degree in person! The pandemic has impacted every corner of the world - and I am so lucky that I was able to spend much of the pandemic back home with my family. Moving forward, I'm not exactly sure what I'll be getting up to - but I'm very excited for the future and whatever may happen. I hope to work for an environmental non-governmental organization eventually and make contributions to the mitigation of climate impacts.