Margaret Satke - BSc in Environmental Science (BSc-ES)

I’m originally from Ottawa. I completed a college environmental diploma in Ontario, which allowed me to apply my knowledge in the technical side of my field. But without a degree, I didn’t have the background to apply for the kind of environmental jobs I really wanted.

I chose RRU for its one-year intensive program and because the environmental science program is well respected. RRU graduates that had visited our college told us they had no problems finding jobs because employers highly value their skills.

I was overwhelmed by everything at RRU – outside and inside. The campus is breathtaking, probably the most beautiful place I’ve ever seen. I love to run and mountain bike, so how could I find a better place? And RRU’s classrooms are comfortable and high tech.

The classes were in-depth, practical and inspiring. I polished my skills in project management and communications – things that really impress employers. We also discussed important principles and concepts related to sustainable development and systems thinking, in addition to all of the scientific knowledge and skills I gained.

The 12 months on campus were intensive, with deadlines pretty much every day. Essays, reports, labs – you name it, we had it. We didn’t know that it was going to be so challenging, but in the end it really paid off and was definitely well worth the time and effort. It actually taught me how to juggle, and manage it all: projects, deadlines and priorities.

There were only 30 of us in my program. It was a really diverse group, with people from all over Canada. Everyone brought something different to the table, which definitely enriched our teamwork.

In fact, the team component was a huge part of the program – about 60 to 70 per cent of our projects – and the faculty selected the teams. We were always working with different people and situations. While it was sometimes challenging, it was great. You share your skills and learn from the strengths and ideas of others. The program helped me learn to deal well with the kind of team challenges I’ve encountered in the workplace.

I’d recommend RRU’s learning outcome philosophy to all learners, undergraduate and graduate. It gives you hands-on experience in small classes and easy access to instructors. And Royal Roads has a distinctive teaching style. They offer you knowledge and information, but give you the freedom to search for knowledge yourself. It’s a very professional setting.

Since graduating, I`ve been working for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities` Centre for Sustainable Development as a Project Officer. I manage applications for funding from Canadian municipalities who are conducting studies and capital projects (related to energy, water, waste, transportation, brownfields, and sustainable community planning sectors) as related to sustainable development. I know the skills I’ve learned at RRU have paid off already.