Ola Kowalewski, Environmental Science

The University of Calgary’s Biogeoscience Institute, Barrier Lake Field Station, offers students the opportunity to conduct research in a real setting. One of these important projects involves doing environmental testing and collecting data to measure the influence of people and development in the Kananaskis area.

“We are fortunate the university has a field station that allows students to gain handson
experience,” says Ola Kowalewski, a fourth-year environmental science student.

“During our work, we learn from specialists and acquire technical skills by collecting the
raw data ourselves. Our analytical skills are further developed by writing field-based
papers. This field work is important because it helps us understand the complexity of
environmental problems, and provides a more comprehensible landscape.”

The data Kowalewski and her classmates collected is studied to assess how the area
is being managed to protect the natural environment, while still providing human
recreational use. “This project taught me that allowing people to access environmental
recreation areas helps people value biodiversity and the preservation our natural
spaces,” says Kowalewski.

“In the process, I developed research methodology techniques, critical thinking skills,
and a better understanding of my role in the world. Field experience has confirmed my
desire to learn and achieve my potential as a participant of the global ecosystem.”