Student Perspectives

Nidhi is an international student in the Environmental Economics and Policy program. She very involved in the U of G campus community and is passionate about sustainability. 

Claire Mindus, a native of France, is passionate about animal production and animal welfare. She has developed practical and theoretical skills over the years by channeling this passion into research throughout her graduate studies. She completed a M.Sc. in agricultural sciences with a major in animal production in France, before following an intriguing PhD offer all the way in Canada at the University of Guelph. Here, she focused her research on understanding the phenomenon of severe feather pecking behaviour in laying hens. 

Bradley Howie completed an undergraduate degree in biochemistry at the University of Waterloo. U of G’s Master of Environmental Science (MES) course-based degree program was the perfect fit for Brad because it allows for independent research without being entirely thesis-based. Deciding to pursue environmental studies was an easy decision for Brad, who always enjoyed learning about nature in his free time. His current research revolves around exploring and incorporating Indigenous science philosophies. As a member of Nipissing First Nation, Brad’s ultimate end goal is to continue working in the field of Canadian Indigenous education.

After completing the marine and freshwater biology program here at the University of Guelph (U of G), Melissa was exposed to working on land development projects through post grad job experience. She decided to pursue a career in planning after being inspired by the sight of development projects coming to life in rural and small-town areas. The M.Sc. Rural Planning and Development program at U of G is where she is conducting research on infrastructure innovations in rural communities, and gaining the tools and skills needed for her future as an accredited planner.

Kelly Evans is a fourth-year environmental sciences student majoring in environmental biology. She was drawn to the University of Guelph by her passion for marine protection. Her primary study focus includes courses that highlight interactons between human activity and the environment. She hopes to pursue a career as a climate change specialist.

Having grown up in Guelph, Danielle Roy is no stranger to the city, and she loves everything it has to offer. She completed her undergraduate degree in environmental economics and policy, here at the University of Guelph (U of G), and is working toward completing a master of science in food, agricultural and resource economics. With her primary interests being natural resource economics, she has been able to explore her passion through behavioral and experimental economics research in her M.Sc. program.

Robin is a passionate environmental sciences master’s student. Soil organic matter and soil health are the primary focus of her master’s research, and she is also heavily involved in the student community by way of volunteering, teaching assistant roles and other student support work. Advancing Canadian agriculture is Robin’s ultimate goal – the knowledge and research exposure obtained during graduate studies is helping her pursue a future career in agricultural research and policy. 

Environmental science student, Ibrahim, believes his program displays an inspiring level of passion and enthusiasm. His love for service and volunteering is demonstrated over the years by his involvement in the Peer Helper Program, and through work as an environmental science student rep and senior co-op student. He views environmental studies as a way of life and recognizes that what he is learning today, opens him up to a of future exciting and diverse career choices.

Oresta ventured to the University of Guelph from New York City, and she has felt at home since day one. She was able to foster her love and interest for scientific exploration by pursuing the research stream of her honours agriculture degree. Graduate studies are a near future next step for Oresta, and she plans to lead a rich career in the field of plant biology.

Having grown up in the bustling city of Toronto, Victoria enjoys the change of pace and scenery the city of Guelph provides her. She’s enthusiastically involved in the campus community of U of G, having served as a Residence Assistant (RA), English Language Buddy, and member of the Food Science Club. As a full-time student and full-time foodie, she enjoys learning about all aspects of food science, as well as applying learnt concepts to her real-life experiences.