Nicolas Viens
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
Feeling the pressure to do something tangible about the climate crisis made me realize how complex this issue is. Wanting to have a positive contribution pushed me to look for answers to complex problems within the climate crisis itself. Pursuing a graduate education felt like the best way to find valuable answers. I also love the intellectual challenge.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
A combination of outstanding international standing, great sociology department and very attractive funding. Overall, I felt highly supported in coming here for my PhD. The quality of the campus and being in Vancouver were also great perks!
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
UBC's Department of Sociology has a critical mass of professors and students devoted to studying environmental sociology and the climate crisis. In addition to being a distinguished university, the department offers me a stimulating and engaging environment to work in, with tremendous peers and scholars to collaborate with.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
Access to nature! I knew Vancouver is reputed for its landscape and outdoors, but I didn't expect it would be that easy to get out of the city.
How do you feel your program is preparing you for those challenges?
So far, my doctoral program has surpassed all my expectations for my graduate degree. Being surrounded with such talented scholars and having a chance to collaborate with them on a regular basis is providing me great research skills that I feel will help me both have a positive contribution in the academic community and achieve my own professional goals. I have the conviction that my program is providing me more than a high-quality education.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
After my master's, I took two years doing research contracts with universities, think tanks and the federal government. These experiences greatly refined my research skills and helped me both decide to do my PhD and prepare for it. On another note, my former military service and having competed in sports at a high level provided great discipline and work ethic that I apply in my academic work.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Take as many opportunities as you can. Get involved in extracurricular projects (research, policy work, etc.) that will help you find your interests and career preferences. Find a good supervisor who can be your mentor and help you connect with others.
