Have Pen, Will Travel

Travel across Scandinavia following in the footsteps of famous author, Mary Wollstonecraft? Talk about the learning experience of a lifetime. This is exactly what recent graduate Heidi Dienesch did. Ms. Dienesch, an English Literature and French Studies student, was the winner of Trent’s Barbara Rooke Travel prize which is awarded annually to a graduating English major with a high average for travel to a significant literary heritage site or region. “Ms. Wollstonecraft’s courage to travel to unfamiliar destinations, her vulnerability, humour and engagement with social justice was inspiring,” said Ms. Dienesch. “This prize is a clear indication of Trent’s dedication to experiential learning.”

Digging Belize

Talk about working in your field – literally. Trent University’s relationship with the archaeological community in Belize has helped uncover more than just ancient artifacts. Skills, experience, and a deeper understanding have been discovered there as well, by both Trent students and professors. “I don’t think you get a true idea of what Archaeology is about until you get into the field,” says Kendall Hill, a former Trent field supervisor. “It is one thing to learn theory from a book or lecture – it is truly another to be at a site and view the reality of how data is collected, as well as the unique challenges of each different dig.” Trent’s Archaeological Research Centre (TUARC) has been conducting research on Maya culture in northern Belize for more than 25 years.

Heartaches Help You Grow

If you think Trent’s campuses in Ontario are beautiful, imagine studying taking your studies global to Ghana or Equador. Through the University’s unique Independent Studies Program, Trent offers students the opportunity to spend a full academic year in Ghana or Equador, enabling them to become familiar with the diverse cultures and regions of the two nations. They have the opportunity to participate in several field trips, and work for up to 12 weeks with a development organization. Bromley Frey, a past International Development Studies student and Trent-in-Ghana participant, says to experience such a situation, with its heartaches and road blocks, is something that offers nothing short of an amazing chance to grow.

The ABCs of DNA

Imagine using DNA to track an illegal hunter or helping law officials determine the precise location of a crime scene. Trent students have had the opportunity to do it all with the help of the impressive team of scientific experts and respected professionals in the Trent Forensic Science program. Renowned faculty bring years of knowledge and field skills to the classroom and beyond, in such areas as DNA analysis, forensic entomology, criminology, bloodstain pattern analysis, wildlife forensics, plant pathogen forensics, court room proceedings, and policing expertise in organized crime and homicide. At Trent, while studying Forensic Science, students work alongside some of the best faculty from across Canada and around the world.