BA 2014: Geography
Where did Aaron work?
Work Term 1 (4 months):
Planning Technical Assistant, Capital Regional District
What did Aaron accomplish?
Capital Regional District
As a Planning Technical Assistant, Aaron worked on 2 interesting projects. The first project involved creating a bike map of the Greater Victoria region. In order to complete this task, he called different municipalities to collect spatial data on existing bicycle facilities. He met the Greater Victoria Cycling Coalition and University of Victoria bicycle enthusiasts to survey and understand the practicality of biking in the region. He then determined which routes have a bike lane or sign and classified them based on a level of rider comfort. Finally, Aaron compiled the bike data and spatially inputted information into GIS and cartographically made a colour-coded map that’s easy to logistically read. The second project he worked on is compiling data on deer in the region, as the over abundance of deer has caused accidents and become a nuisance to the public. Aaron collected data by calling different departments in the government and ICBC. He then compiled statistical data on the status of deer health, population, and movement.
What would Aaron tell others about Arts Co-op?
According to Aaron, “Co-op is one of the best programs at a post-secondary institution. It supplements your educational development, builds your career, and gives students a chance to go out and explore different opportunities.”
How did Arts Co-op benefit Aaron?
Focused Academics
This position enabled Aaron to focus his academic studies and gave him more of a career direction. Before joining Arts Co-op, Aaron enjoyed his studies but didn’t feel like he had much direction and wondered what his degree would offer him upon graduation. Aaron’s experience in a planning department made him realize how much school has to offer in terms of contributing to his career development and he is excited about continuing his studies in urban planning, and possibly going to graduate school.
Skills & Experience for a Head Start
Aaron had the opportunity to be involved in the planning process of the region and met individuals who are passionate about their jobs and who want the best for their community. His most memorable experience was attending a Developmental Planning and Advisory Committee meeting where he met “key planners in the region that discuss pressing issues in terms of planning in the capital regional district.” He learned first-hand how planners collaborate to discuss issues to tackle approaches towards sustainability. In addition, through these projects, Aaron was able to apply his knowledge of GIS, cartography and Excel to collect data and create visually appealing and coherent maps. In addition, he strengthened his interpersonal and public relations skills when meeting new individuals. The skills and network he developed will be valuable in graduate school and in his future career in whichever area of urban planning and design he decides to pursue.
BA 2014: Geography
Where did Aaron work?
Work Term 1 (4 months):
Planning Technical Assistant, Capital Regional District
What did Aaron accomplish?
Capital Regional District
As a Planning Technical Assistant, Aaron worked on 2 interesting projects. The first project involved creating a bike map of the Greater Victoria region. In order to complete this task, he called different municipalities to collect spatial data on existing bicycle facilities. He met the Greater Victoria Cycling Coalition and University of Victoria bicycle enthusiasts to survey and understand the practicality of biking in the region. He then determined which routes have a bike lane or sign and classified them based on a level of rider comfort. Finally, Aaron compiled the bike data and spatially inputted information into GIS and cartographically made a colour-coded map that’s easy to logistically read. The second project he worked on is compiling data on deer in the region, as the over abundance of deer has caused accidents and become a nuisance to the public. Aaron collected data by calling different departments in the government and ICBC. He then compiled statistical data on the status of deer health, population, and movement.
What would Aaron tell others about Arts Co-op?
According to Aaron, “Co-op is one of the best programs at a post-secondary institution. It supplements your educational development, builds your career, and gives students a chance to go out and explore different opportunities.”
How did Arts Co-op benefit Aaron?
Focused Academics
This position enabled Aaron to focus his academic studies and gave him more of a career direction. Before joining Arts Co-op, Aaron enjoyed his studies but didn’t feel like he had much direction and wondered what his degree would offer him upon graduation. Aaron’s experience in a planning department made him realize how much school has to offer in terms of contributing to his career development and he is excited about continuing his studies in urban planning, and possibly going to graduate school.
Skills & Experience for a Head Start
Aaron had the opportunity to be involved in the planning process of the region and met individuals who are passionate about their jobs and who want the best for their community. His most memorable experience was attending a Developmental Planning and Advisory Committee meeting where he met “key planners in the region that discuss pressing issues in terms of planning in the capital regional district.” He learned first-hand how planners collaborate to discuss issues to tackle approaches towards sustainability. In addition, through these projects, Aaron was able to apply his knowledge of GIS, cartography and Excel to collect data and create visually appealing and coherent maps. In addition, he strengthened his interpersonal and public relations skills when meeting new individuals. The skills and network he developed will be valuable in graduate school and in his future career in whichever area of urban planning and design he decides to pursue.