Meet Jack Hounslow-Miller, a transfer student in the BSc. Natural Resources Conservation program (now the Bachelor’s in Natural Resources – Major in Conservation).
“When I first came to UBC, I began my journey in the School of Kinesiology where I had aspirations for a career in Physical Therapy or medical school. Coming from a background of science in high school and a large involvement in sports, I felt a great pressure from peers to pursue this path as they too were hoping to achieve this, and I got caught up in other people’s goals instead of my own.
My passion for helping others truly informed my decision to study Kinesiology, but my idea of how we could “help others” was limited by a narrow perspective of what health is. It wasn’t until I took an elective course at UBC, Climate Change and Health, that I realized core aspects to the determinants of human health begin from one’s environment. Whether that is access to clean water, sufficient food sources, or breathing unpolluted air, it goes without saying that human health is planetary health. After this realization, I found it difficult to imagine myself doing anything else and is when I began to research other programs at UBC that would align more with my interests.
Landing on the Faculty of Forestry and being able to meet with the program directors, I was immediately pulled in by the central values and goals of the faculty, as there is an understanding that if we want to help our planet, it begins by uniting students together in the classroom. The range of experiences and skills gained within the classroom are truly unique and are filled with passionate instructors and like-minded students. The list of what is possible through the Faculty of Forestry is endless, and means that there is something for everyone in this community.
My experience with UBC Forestry has been extremely positive. The sense of community created is felt immediately and greatly encouraged me to put myself out there, say hi to the person next to me, and get involved in the diverse opportunities offered within the program. In addition to a great and supportive services team, I always feel like someone has my back, whether that’s a professor or a friend”