Starting university can feel like a big adjustment, but the Land One program, jointly offered by the Faculty of Forestry and the Faculty of Land and Food Systems, offers a unique and supportive way to ease into your first year at UBC. With its cohort-based structure, Land One helps you build close connections with classmates and instructors while creating a strong sense of belonging within your faculty.
Curious about what Land One is really like? Keep reading to hear from UBC Forestry student Mary Haanen as she shares her experience in the program!
Introduce yourself!
Hello all! My name is Mary, I’m a Forest Resource Management student in her fourth year at UBC. Over the past two summers, I have been working as a forest technician and will be assisting in wildlife research in provincial parks this summer. On the side, I dabble in logger sports competitions and leading the Student Environmental Centre.
Why did you choose the Land One program?
I chose the Land One program in search of community and a built-in support system as I transition into university. Rather than taking my first year credits in large lecture halls, I opted to take classes within the Land One cohort. This way, I was able to immerse myself in a classroom with activities that were conducive to engagement with my classmates.
What is your favourite memory from Land One?
Land One’s weekend getaway to the Malcolm Knapp Research Forest was definitely my highlight. We were taught basic forestry technician skills such as orienteering, we went for strolls learning mushroom identification, and spent the evenings taking dips in Loon Lake.
How did your perspective on land management evolve throughout your time in the Land One program?
Land One has allowed me to continue my studies and career within a greater context of competing land uses, examining management practices, policy, and current events that impact both of these related fields. Learning about land management from a broader scale, will allow students to address overarching issues with related fields in mind that share extended freshwater, soil, and climate systems.
How did working closely with peers and faculty shape your academic experience?
Looking back, Land One significantly expanded my network. I have been able to make a multitude of connections amongst our faculty of 1200 people. Since first year, I’ve always had a familiar face to make me feel more at home in my classes. I met some of my best friends through Land One—one of which I just spent an exchange semester with in Barcelona!
What skills did you take with you following the Land One program?
Land One cultivated my communication, critical thinking, collaboration, and research skills. Within your land management careers, you will always be working with colleagues and stakeholders, so it’s helpful to start practicing collaboration and teamwork at the beginning of your university experience.
Do you have any advice for students who might be interested in this program or are unsure about the transition into university?
I would highly advise that you apply for Land One, as it sets you up for social and academic success within the faculty. Beyond that, be excited! UBC is the perfect place to cultivate your skills and curiosities, with over 350 clubs to try and opportunities to meet like-minded people. Push yourself to experiment as much as you can, to utilize the abundant resources our university has available to you.