Who are you and where are you from?

My name is Brendan Campbell. I am a third year Biology student and am from Montreal Lake First Nation.

What are you studying?

I am working towards a Biology Degree with plans of going into research as an Ecologist.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

In 5 years, I see myself with a Biology degree and working as a field biologist for the government or a university. At this point in my life, I will be preparing to head into a Masters Program and hopefully be eligible for Indigenous Research in Biology (as well as scientific research in Biology).

What makes you successful academically?

I try to understand my strengths and weaknesses as a student, especially where time management is concerned.

What is/was your summer job? How did it help you with your educational goals?

I worked for a Grad student in the Biology Department. Her research was about the relationship between oil/gas development and grassland bird species. As a field assistant, I helped her collect data. It helped with my educational goals because it helped to solidify the possibility of ecological research as a career.

What would be your message to those following in your footsteps?

University should be about establishing your “career” i.e. your future. You should only pursue your career through the university if you are 100% confident it can make you happy. Think about it!

Your heritage can provide an equally valid understanding of the world around you as much as science can. As a science student, I tell u this.

Check out the previous Student Spotlight in the ARCHIVE