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Heather Barnes
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Heather Barnes, a second year University Transfer Science student, is passionate about the environment. "My enthusiasm in Environmental Science started at an early age. I used to watch many documentaries on wildlife. My favourite show was David Suzuki's Program - The Nature of Things. The more I learned about the ecosystem, the more determined I was to preserve natural habitat. My dad also got me interested in Science. Above all, my mom helped me to believe in myself. She said that I can do anything if I put my mind into it."
After a successful work term at GardenWorks as a Customer Service Representative in the Summer of 2002, Heather secured a placement at the Stanley Park Ecology Society (SPES) as a Stewardship Project Leader this summer. She describes her current position as interesting and challenging. "I am taking on two brand-new projects coordinating Ivy Busters and assisting the Stanley Park Earthen Architecture Project. I am responsible for all facets of project management, creating and maintaining the website, coordinating volunteers, seeking resources and supervising construction. Never have I held this much responsibility. I am accountable for my decisions as never before. This creates a challenge, which I readily welcome and makes my work more interesting."
Heather credits the Co-op Program and her volunteer experiences for her success at SPES. "Co-op has added an entirely new dimension to my educational experience at Douglas College. It has allowed me to use the classroom knowledge in relevant, real-world situations. Through step-by-step guides, a great website, and great staff, the Co-op Program has helped me to feel prepared and relaxed heading into a work term. I like the warm, caring one-on-one support from the Placement Officers. In addition, my volunteer experiences have provided me with an incredible range of skills. I wouldn't be where I am today if I hadn't done so much volunteering."
Heather encourages every student to participate in the Co-op Program. "Try Co-op! You have nothing to lose, and everything to gain. Be persistent and don't give up. The experience you get will far outweigh the effort to apply."
With two successful Co-op work terms under her belt, Heather is moving closer to her dream of becoming an Ecologist. After graduating from Douglas College, she will be transferring to the 3rd year Environmental Science Program at Simon Fraser University. After that, working in a non-profit organization like SPES would be an ideal job for Heather.
