Meet Robin, M.Sc. Environmental Sciences Student

About Robin 

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. 

Program: Master of Science in Environmental Sciences
Hometown: Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada

What did you study for your undergraduate degree? 

I completed a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Honours Agriculture) at U of G in 2019. 

Why did you decide to pursue graduate studies at the University of Guelph? Did your undergrad experience shape your decision to further your studies?

I decided to pursue a graduate degree based on my career path, interest in research, and love for U of G. I am interested in pursuing a career in the agricultural research field, and for this, a master’s degree is an asset. U of G is a highly rated research university, especially in the field of agriculture, and the professors here are incredible. It was a combination of my undergraduate courses at U of G and summer research positions where I discovered my interest in soil science, and really wanted to expand on that research focus through a master’s project.  

What is your research focus? 

My research focuses on soil organic matter and soil health. The goal of my master’s project is to determine how long-term crop rotations and cover crops affect organic matter quality by looking at various soil health assessments and physical fractionation of organic matter. 

What do you find most rewarding about graduate studies? What is most challenging?

It is very rewarding to see your research project develop – starting from just a simple research question and turning into data, results, and conclusions. There are of course challenges along the way though. Research doesn’t always work out the way you want it to – sometimes experiments don’t work, or you don’t get the results you thought you would. It’s all about adapting your project along the way and being flexible to handle the unexpected. 

How have you found ways to get involved as a grad student? 

I am currently employed by the OAC Dean’s Office in a student support role assisting with projects that promote, engage, and enrich the experiences of students currently involved with U of G graduate studies, as well as aspiring grad students. I am also a member of the OAC Graduate Student Council (I was formerly the Student Federation of Ontario Agricultural College Representative and am currently the Events Coordinator) and have volunteered on campus with the Sustainability Office and with many OAC Student Liaison Program events. I have also held two teaching assistant positions. These were great experiences which allowed me to immerse myself in the culture, spirit, and community that comes with being a graduate student at U of G.

Where are your favourite spots in Guelph?

My favourite spot on campus is definitely the Bullring. There is such an amazing atmosphere there, especially when there is live music throughout the day. It is a great spot to do work, catch up with friends, or eat! Off campus, I love to walk the trails in Preservation Park and Royal City Park (especially with ice cream from the Boathouse).  

What are some free-time activities that make you happy, or relieves stress?

In my free time I love to bake and try new recipes, catch up on reading or podcasts, gardening, hiking, mountain biking, and training with my dog. I love to challenge myself with new skills and activities, particularly ones that involve nature and food.

What are your plans or goals after graduation?

After graduation I hope to find a job in the agricultural research or policy field. I would love to help advance Canadian agriculture for farmers, and advocate for the sustainability of the industry.

How has your graduate program experience been different from your undergrad experience? 

Graduate school is a lot more independent and focused than undergrad. You are working on a large, very specific, research project that requires a lot of self-discipline, self-motivation, and resourcefulness. 

What advice would you give to an undergrad student considering graduate school?

Connect/network with your peers/professors, and really invest in experiences beyond your focus area. There are so many opportunities to surround yourself with diverse learning environments that are unique to graduate school and will pay dividends to your professional career. I would also recommend choosing a research project that you are truly passionate about, but most importantly, choose a faculty advisor you will work well with.  

What or who is your greatest inspiration? Why?

My Golden Retriever Nazko is my greatest inspiration. It sounds funny, but it’s true! He forces me to be better for myself and not to take life too seriously. He wakes up every morning excited to experience his world, and I think there is a lot to learn from the simplicity of our pets.

What's one fun fact about yourself?

I am a huge Formula 1 fan! My favourite drivers are Lando Norris for McLaren and Charles Leclerc for Ferrari.