Shining Student Natalie Krizan, Environmental Science major

Starting with an open mind about her academic path, environmental science student Natalie Krizan discovered her passion for environmental science and sociology at the University of Lethbridge, forging a unique and multidisciplinary academic journey. Engaging in experiential learning, from independent geography studies to an NSERC-funded lab position, Natalie thrived in the flexibility and creative independence these opportunities provided.

During the summer of 2023 I was fortunate enough to receive a Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRA) position in Dr. Laura Chasmer's lab. I called it my trial run at a master’s degree, as it allowed me to experience self-directed research, fieldwork, the comradery of the lab environment, travel, and conferences. I loved every minute! Getting to be a part of the lab team and conduct my own research solidified for me that I am enjoying the path I am on.

Meet Natalie | Open-hearted. Enthusiastic. Empathetic.
Program: Bachelor of Science | Major: Environmental Science
Hometown: Pincher Creek, AB

Why did you choose ULethbridge?

I chose ULethbridge because it is close to my hometown. At the start of my university career, I was unsure what path I wanted to take, so choosing a school that would allow me to stay close to my family while taking a wide variety of courses was ideal. The new Science Commons was also set to open within my first year, which was enticing as well, as was the growth of the research side of the institution.

Did you know what you wanted to study before you came to ULethbridge?

I was undecided about what I wanted to study, though I felt more drawn to the sciences; I knew I wanted to keep my options open and get a taste for various topics. I started off as a general science major and found that I liked pretty much every course I took. After taking Environmental Science 2000, though, I decided that was the path I wanted to take because of how multidisciplinary the field is. From there, I added a minor in sociology, as the intersection between physical and social sciences interests me greatly. I also added a Geographic Information System (GIS) concentration because I wanted to gain technical skills as well.

Please tell us a bit about your experiential or work-integrated learning.

I completed an independent study in geography with Dr. Hester Jiskoot as my supervisor, and I am currently working on another as part of my sociology minor with Dr. Jason Laurendeau. My favourite thing about both these projects has been the flexibility and creative independence they allow for. For the geography study, I created a guidebook detailing sites in the Castle Provincial and Wildland Parks, where there is evidence of past glaciation. I got to work with a region and a topic that interested me and was presented in a way that allowed me to easily share that work with my family and friends rather than a scientific paper. For the sociology project, I am focusing on the impact of settler colonialism on wildfire management strategies. In this instance, I was able to choose a topic that will provide me with an important perspective to carry forward in my master’s research.

What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience so far?

During the summer of 2023, I was fortunate enough to receive a Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada Undergraduate Student Research Awards position in Dr. Laura Chasmer's lab. I called it my trial run at a master’s degree, as it allowed me to experience self-directed research, fieldwork, the comradery of the lab environment, travel, and conferences. I loved every minute! Getting to be a part of the lab team and conduct my own research solidified for me that I am enjoying the path I am on.

How have your professors impacted your education?

Dr. Cam Goater was the professor for my Environmental Science 2000 class, and the knowledge and passion he brought to class each day is what prompted me to change majors (there are few people who can make snails so exciting!). From there, I found myself interacting with many of the professors in the Department of Geography & Environment, all of whom brought that same excitement to their teaching and were approachable and engaging. The courses I have taken with these professors have definitely shaped how I view the world. Since taking geomorphology with Professor Hester Jiskoot, I have started seeing the landscapes around me through a new lens, appreciating the history and the forces that shaped them. I was prompted to add a GIS concentration to my degree after Marcus Dostie, an instructor in the Department, mentioned the idea of map-making being both a science and an art and a good technical skill to have. After hearing about the wildfire-related work going on in Professor Laura Chasmer's lab, something clicked for me, and I set my sights on working in that field.

Whether it is working on wildfires in Jasper, creating a geological feature and trail map, or as a member of the executive for the ULethbridge Geography Club, Natalie's effervescent personality always shines through. – Dr. Laura Chasmer, Department of Geography & Environment. (Drs. Chasmer and Hester Jiskoot, as well as Marcus Dostie nominated Natalie as a Shining Student)

Is there anyone else who has had an important influence on your ULethbridge experience?

The friends I have been so blessed to have made at ULethbridge have become some of the most important people in my life. From study buddies to support systems through exam seasons, to group members for projects, to friends who I call to go on ice cream runs after long days, I greatly value the people I have been able to connect with. They have been a big part of my self-growth over the years here.

Have you received any scholarships and awards?

I have been fortunate enough to receive scholarships throughout my degree. I am very grateful to the donors for helping ease the financial stress that post-secondary can bring. It makes it all the more enjoyable when the focus can be on the interesting courses and opportunities that come along.

Are you participating in any extracurricular activities?

I have participated in intramural basketball and volleyball during my years at ULethbridge. Getting out to run around is a great way to ease some of the stress of school and connect with people. Being a member/executive of the Geography Club has had similar benefits, with opportunities to go hiking and meet new people with similar interests.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I really enjoy being outdoors (shocking for an environmental science student, I know!). Camping and hiking are two of my favourite activities, especially with my pup, Letty. I also enjoy sewing, particularly upcycling fabric scraps to create tote bags with unique patterns. My absolute favourite thing, though, is getting to spend time connecting with my friends and family.

What are your hopes/plans for the future?

I plan on pursuing a master’s in geography here at ULethbridge with Dr. Laura Chasmer. Wildfire research has really piqued my interest after my USRA summer, and the field is incredibly important and impactful. Ultimately, I hope to do work where I can have a positive impact on the world and its inhabitants. I hope this path leads me to a career along those lines, perhaps working in national parks in some capacity.

What advice would you like to give those about to begin their journey at ULethbridge?

I have always loved the University’s slogan, Fiat Lux, because it reminds me of one of my favourite quotes: ‘As we let our own light shine we unconsciously give others permission to do the same.’ My advice to those starting out would be to let that light shine! Strive to be your most genuine self and create space for others to do the same.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us about your decision to pursue a university degree?

This degree has certainly not been the experience I expected when I started out in 2018. After one and a half normal years of school, the pandemic forced us to quickly adapt to online learning. After returning to in-person learning again for one semester, we were then faced with the ULFA strike which paused the Spring 2022 semester. Following that year, I had my technical semester at the college. Finally, in my sixth year, I am hoping to have a "normal' year once again. As much as the various upheavals were stressful at the time, I would say my unconventional undergraduate degree experience has presented some important life lessons, including the importance of being patient and empathetic with others, and adaptable to new circumstances. These experiences, particularly online learning, have also made me greatly appreciate being around people again. I smile now thinking about the buzz of energy on campus.

Quick Answers

Favourite class: Fundamentals of Environmental Science
Favourite social activity at ULethbridge: Geography Club
Favourite place to study: Anywhere in the Science Commons
What are three awesome things about you? I once got second place at bowling provincials. My high school graduation dress was handmade by me and my aunties. I am working on growing my vinyl collection.