The GCC is a great way to meet people. You can participate in fun ways to connect ideas, find study buddies, and explore subjects outside your major.
First-year student Emma Marnik chose the University of Lethbridge because of the reputation of the environmental science program. Moving to Lethbridge, all the way from Whitehorse in the Yukon was a big and intimidating move. However, knowing that she could live and learn in a smaller city and university, was a huge draw. Emma is participating in the Global Citizenship Cohort (GCC) in the Environment & Culture theme. As we near the end of the year, we wanted to connect with Emma and learn more about her first-year experience in the GCC.
Why did you choose the University of Lethbridge?
I chose the University of Lethbridge because I heard good things about the environmental science program. I also wanted a town and school that was smaller side and that I would not find overwhelming.
What drew you to the Global Citizenship Cohort? Why did you apply?
I like meeting people and thought it would be a good way to connect. I am glad I applied, especially since this year was online.
What has been your most memorable GCC experience?
Getting to meet some of my classmates in person finally. The debates with the other GCC theme have been awesome! It's so much fun when you have a group activity where everyone is participating.
Why should future students participate in the GCC?
The GCC is a great way to meet people. You can participate in fun ways to connect ideas, find study buddies, and explore subjects outside your major.
Please describe your capstone project for the GCC.
I am working with a friend on a feasibility study of Run-Of -River Micro-Hydro systems in the Lethbridge area. We would like to see if the amount of energy generated would be sufficient for single homes or more significant energy needs.
Is there someone specific who had an important influence on your uLethbridge experience? This can be a friend, mentor, staff or faculty.
Dr. Jodie Asselin, the coordinator of the Environment & Culture GCC theme. She is helpful and easy to talk to. Jodie has been very helpful in understanding how it feels to move to Alberta (and Lethbridge) and guiding me to figure out all sorts of things about the school and different services offered.
What is the most important lesson you have learned this year in the GCC?
How to manage all sorts of deadlines, readings, classes, recorded lectures, tests, quizzes, and balance it with the rest of everyday life.
We are spending a lot more time at home now. What do you do to keep busy? Have you picked up any new hobbies?
I have been cooking full time instead of for fun, and when the gyms are open, I have been able to figure that out! Having a gym within a 2 minutes' walk instead of a 30-minute drive has been fantastic. I would also highly recommend the climbing centre.
What advice would you give to students who are about to begin their post-secondary journeys?
Make sure you leave the right amount of time between classes. Not too close, not too far, and not too many in a single day. I didn't realize how hard it would be to do things between classes when you have an awkward amount of time.
The Faculty of Arts & Science Global Citizenship Cohort (GCC) offers a unique opportunity for students to connect some first-year courses around a common theme while interacting with a group of like-minded students. Learn more about the GCC.