Enjoying music from home-made 'violins', Rwanda, 2007. This is going to be a bit of an explanation of my education selection now and the choices I hope to make in the near future. Currently I am enrolled in the Bachelor of Environmental Science majoring in International Development at the University of Waterloo. When I complete this degree, I would like to continue in school for a few years and complete a Masters of Library and Information Sciences as well as a Bachelor of Education. International Development has had my attention since I discovered the degree in high school – for as long as I can remember, I have wanted to work in humanitarian aid. This past summer I was looking through some old school papers and discovered that in elementary school, I was already writing stories about living in Africa and trying to help orphans. It has been an ongoing focus in my life – children just capture my heart, and the lack of access to basic necessities that many children experience has impacted my strong sense of justice and equality, giving me a drive to create change for these children. After visiting Rwanda in 2007, this desire was only strengthened. The program I am enrolled in has a dual focus – the human and environment sides of aid. It is giving me a broader understanding of the aid world, and also teaching me skills which I can use to assist people with in a more holistic manner. I have taken courses in accounting, marketing, economics, statistics, environmental science, the aid industry, urbanisation, planning, environmental assessments, and more. I have chosen to also complete a minor in Peace and Conflict studies, a Diploma of Environmental Assessment, a Language Certificate in French, and a Global Experience Certificate. These additions may change over the next year as I work to finish up the last few courses, but I hope that these supplementary studies will increase my marketability as a potential employee. I am also currently working on a TESOL course outside of this university, to add to my usable skills for future placements in other countries. I am interested in pursuing a Masters of Library and Information Sciences because, once again, it is something that I have dreamed of for a long time. In high school, I had the good fortune to be able to work in the local library as a page, and was able to experience many aspects of working at a library, and I loved it! This degree is also one that is a useful degree worldwide, as libraries exist everywhere. Finally, the Bachelor of Education – a degree that I see as being immensely practical, as it will give me greater understanding of child development, and teach me methods of educating children at their level and to their style of learning. A teaching degree is also useful internationally, and can also be paired with the MLIS degree to ensure that children have access to books that will educate them, whether in a school or at a public library. I have worked with children since I entered the employed student sector, and enjoy it immensely. So, now you know where I am hopefully heading in the near future!
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AuthorWelcome! My name is Katiana and I am a development professional pursuing my dream to live out Isaiah 1:17 to the best of my abilities. I am passionate about teaching and working with vulnerable families and children to improve their lives sustainably.
CaveatThis blog is composed of my personal opinions, which do not necessarily reflect the opinion or views of institutions or organizations that I may be or have been affiliated with.
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