Stream of study: Co-op
Favourite co-op: My first co-op, at the Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, was such a great experience! All my coworkers were extremely helpful and encouraging, and they made an effort to match me with projects linked to my program and interests.
Are you involved in any campus clubs?
So far, I've been a part of the UW Running and Marathon club, joined the Buddy System organized by PSA, and joined weekly yoga classes offered through Warrior Athletics!
Why did you choose to study in the Faculty of Environment at Waterloo?
There were three main factors which brought me to Waterloo's Faculty of Environment. Firstly, I loved the fact that the University had a dedicated Faculty of Environment; not many universities can say the same! I valued the prospect of being surrounded by people who shared my passion and interest in the environment. The second factor in my decision was the opportunity to gain practical skills and experience. In addition to the work experience I would gain from the co-op program, I liked that the program provided exposure to different softwares and tools used in the planning field. Lastly, I chose Waterloo because I felt at home when I toured the campus. Spending time in the Environment buildings made me feel comfortable and welcomed.
What do you love most about your program?
For me, the tight-knit cohort is the best part of Planning. We have a relatively small class size, and many of our courses are taken together, which makes it easy to meet your peers. Walking into a lecture hall filled with familiar, friendly faces definitely makes classes more enjoyable.
What problem would you like to solve?
Coming into university, I knew I wanted to help create more environmentally sustainable communities; when I came across the Planning program, it immediately felt like the perfect fit. I am passionate about protecting our natural environment and reducing the ecological footprint of the built environment, so I love that Planning incorporates environmental studies. Sustainability has been highlighted in many of my courses, from transportation planning to ecology, which has made me realize that creating sustainable cities relies on a holistic approach. Regardless of the specific Planning sector I choose to work in, I feel like the skills and knowledge I'm gaining in this program are preparing me to effect positive change.