Ester Wilson, '17
2020 Recipient of J.P. Bickell Mining Scholarship
I never could have imagined how valuable my experience with the Trent School of Environment (TSE) would be. The earth’s physical processes course really resonated with me and it confirmed my choice to major in environmental geoscience. The professor was passionate and knowledgeable, and the content of the course invoked my curiosity.
I gained industry experience in a work placement at SGS Lakefield, in the Mineral Department with the rheology and environmental metallurgy groups. I was able to observe lab procedures on slurry characterization, grain-size analysis, concrete testing and much more. I also designed my own study where I was able to independently investigate the 'shape effect’ on unconfined compressive strength tests and write a full technical report to present my study. I also worked as a research assistant in my professor's geochemistry lab marking assignments as an academic assistant.
Another meaningful opportunity was a community-based research (CBR) project. My partner and I collaborated to present a lake health evaluation to a local community cottagers association. We used a bio-monitoring technique that sampled benthic macro-invertebrates. The CBR course also guided us on professional practices, presentations, and writing. Overall, it was a comprehensive course design that provided practical experience in the field, the lab, and the office setting.
I was encouraged to pursue more opportunities. I found a rare and exciting job advertisement online for a hydrogeology co-op student position at a big geoscience consulting firm in Calgary. TSE staff supported my application and acceptance of the offer. I took an 8-month break from studies to work in a real professional environment where I gained experience in hydrogeology, office and field duties.
My passion for geoscience and the supportive environment of the TSE led me to graduate on the Dean's honour roll and President's list. I was also the recipient of the Champlain President's Prize and the J.P. Bickell Scholarship. Before my graduation, I had already received exciting job offers and I have chosen a company to continue my geoscience journey.
All these above-mentioned memories of my life at Trent encompass much more than technical skills and classroom learned theory. Due to the small class sizes, I connected with professors and made good friends with my classmates. I also learned how to believe in myself, how to trust in my ability and test my potential. I learned how to work in professional settings, independently and collaboratively. I learned how to persevere and problem-solve. I wish I could go back to my high school self and tell her: "You can do it! And you will."