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2013 Graduate Profiles Catherine Monaghan ’09, Bachelor of Environmental Science and Studies (BESS), Environmental and Resource Science and Studies (ERSS), Oshawa, ON“I have come to realize that fields of study can be fluid, and that “interdisciplinarity” is required if we truly wish to tackle environmental problems.” Ms. Catherine Monaghan sustained an outstanding academic record in high school and throughout her entire environmental studies career at Trent University. After receiving a scholarship for her high marks and various academic awards, she felt valued as a strong student by the Trent community. Her passions include a love for nature and the environment and the desire to inspire youth with a strong female voice. She is fascinated by how humans and the environment shape each other. She may emulate her professors at Trent as she plans teach at the post-secondary level. She credits Trent for providing a cutting edge, up-to –the-minute education with professors at the top of their field. In similarity to the Trent program, she feels the environment requires a multi-disciplined approach. Catherine felt Trent was an ideal place to live and learn. Incidentally, she recalls that sharing a blueberry patch with a bear ranks as a particularly fond memory of her time at Trent. How will you make a difference with your Trent degree? What are you future goals? What will you do with your Trent degree? What did you get out of your Trent degree? What I love about the program is that courses are often taught by not only professors, but also top professionals in various fields, such as environmental law, environmental communication and media, ecological design, and sustainable agriculture. Coursework is hardly ever boring, I found that my work was usually on the cutting edge or following major events, such as researching new biofuel opportunities for local farms, making recommendations for upcoming municipal Official Plan review sessions, or developing a project proposal for a nature conservancy. I have come to realize that fields of study can be fluid, and that “interdisciplinarity” is required if we truly wish to tackle environmental problems. What is the best thing about studying at Trent? I am much more self-aware now that I have spent time at university. I have learned so much about my personality, my needs, and my health. I firmly believe that it is important to learn to manage stress in order to stay healthy. Can you give an example of how Trent professors had a special impact? I discovered that the times I connected most with professors were usually outside of the classroom. At Trent, not everything happens inside four walls. I developed valuable relationships with professors while on field trips, volunteering through course work, working with various clubs and groups, and working on research projects. I often saw professors at the Saturday Farmer’s Market, cycling on the Rotary Trail, or taking the Trent Express. My advice to new students would be this; don’t be nervous or shy to speak with professors. They’re there to help you learn, and they genuinely want to do so. Remember that learning can happen anywhere, so take every opportunity you get. One of my professors in particular is very special to me. He taught me more than just environmental science; he taught me kindness, patience, and selflessness. He has such passion for his work, is eternally optimistic, and is literally bursting with happiness. I’m not going to name him here, but I’m sure he knows who he is. Thank you for all you’ve done – you have inspired me, and I can only hope to follow in your footsteps one day. Interests and passions: Awards and Scholarships received at Trent University:
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