Currently in my third year at McMaster University, pursuing a Combined Honours Bachelor’s in Political Science and Society, Culture and Religion. Studying both Political Science and Society, Culture and Religion has exposed me to a variety of academic writing, deepened my understanding of diversity in contemporary Canada, and helped me develop a comprehensive recognition of how policy is determined. Although I enjoy both my programs, CityLAB has challenged me through enriching experiential learning and community engagement. Unlike typical university programs, that tend to focus on research and theories, CityLAB encourages students to pursue meaningful solutions, to real, tangible issues facing contemporary Canada.
I am presently working alongside community stakeholders and City employees to develop a Sustainable Neighborhood Action Plan (SNAP) in the North End neighborhood of Hamilton. This pilot project requires significant planning, research and community outreach. I work closely with project partners to develop local, community-level strategies aimed at climate mitigation and adaption. Currently, I am helping to organize a workshop for community stakeholders that will identify strategies for combating climate change at a local level. Throughout this process it is important to remember that this is not a detached, theoretical project, it is an ongoing conversation that directly involves people’s lives. This is just one reason why it is crucial to have transparent and honest communication with community members.
Projects at CityLAB do not solely serve as a means of achieving a particular mark, like other university projects tend to do; instead, CityLAB activities are intended to improve and strengthen local communities within Hamilton. CityLAB allows us to build meaningful relationships with community members and explore diverse and vibrant neighborhoods.
Beyond project work, CityLAB presents a variety of lessons, including a design class led by Dr. Brian Baetz. Design class pushes me to pursue logistic problems that greatly differ from the theory I usually study. Although this class is challenging, especially considering that my university career focuses on social science courses, it allows me to develop new ways of approaching and analyzing problems.
CityLAB has been an amazing experience that has strengthened my understanding of community engagement. I would strongly recommend this program to any student and I hope to carry the lessons learned in CityLAB throughout my life.