Whitney Lake ‘08, B.Sc. Honours, Environmental & Resource Science, Cobourg, Ontario

As a part-time mature student living off campus, Whitney found an inclusive education in the great outdoors at Trent University in Peterborough. While earning her degree in Environmental and Resource Science she encountered free expression and hands-on learning steeped in traditional First Peoples teachings.  She was also inspired to make her own mark.

“Each aspect of learning included traditional knowledge weaved into the experience which broadened my understanding,” said Whitney. “The campus extended into wild spaces and outside communities to complement learning.”

Whitney loved the abundant life experiences she found within her curriculum, yet definitely outside of the classroom.  “I walked on a bog and collected core samples,” said Whitney. “I visited farms and learned food sovereignty by working in a kitchen for the homeless.  I collected wild rice from a canoe. These were new experiences that stayed in my heart long after the courses came to an end.”

She describes a Biology field course in which she studied marine mammals and sea birds in New Brunswick. “It was an amazing adventure, one of my most challenging but also incredible courses.”

Within each course, Whitney designed and completed a wide variety of projects.  She feels they are a personal expression and extension of herself, enabling her to grow and develop.

She also appreciates the opportunity to attend events and classes with the elders and professors of the First Peoples House of Learning, in turn broadening her Indigenous knowledge and cultural appreciation.

Upon graduation Whitney leaves behind a legacy of her devoted environmental stewardship. She began the Trent Apiary Club, introducing the first honey bees to the Trent Experimental Farm. The club now has forty members and two beehives on campus. Her efforts provide future students with the opportunity to learn the art of beekeeping.

 “Many Trent staff and professors helped me achieve this goal,” stated Whitney.  “They allowed me to leave a footprint on campus after graduation. It demonstrates how Trent University grows with the students, and is open to change and new ideas to improve the student experience.”

Whitney feels many of her Trent professors had a strong impact on her life. “Dr. Tom Hutchinson didn’t just teach me agriculture; he made me into a farmer, introduced me to beekeeping, and mentored me through my undergraduate thesis.”

She describes Dr. Mark Dickinson as an amazing educator who challenged her thoughts and forever changed how she looks at the world, the people and relationships within it.

In future, Whitney will pursue graduate studies in Education.

“Trent has empowered me to believe in myself and my ability to facilitate change,” states Whitney. “I hope to instill and influence others with the belief that living sustainably in partnership with our world is an achievable goal.”

Extra-curricular Activities:

• Founder and Member, The Trent Apiary Club (2014-2015)
• Member,  Wildlife Society (2011-2015)
• Member, First Peoples House of Learning (2013,2014)