Emily and Shaida, Two Scholarship Students Involved in Environmental Sustainability

Emily: Growing up, I developed a strong appreciation for nature, enjoying hiking, swimming, and countless adventures in the outdoors with my sisters. At the age of 18, I started working as a guide at a back country canoe tripping organisation. I can say without a doubt that this experience sparked my interest in biodiversity and nature conservation, leading me to pursue an undergraduate degree in biology and environmental field studies at McGill University.

Following my studies, I gained over five years of work experience in the sustainability field in various roles, including at the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, Parks Canada, and the Quebec-Labrador Foundation. Most recently, I worked at the municipal level as the Climate Action Coordinator for the Town of New Glasgow. Through these experiences, my commitment to nature conservation has grown to include climate action and resilience, community engagement, and emergency response and preparedness.

Shaida: From an early age, I was surrounded by nature, which instilled in me an intrinsic appreciation of the environment and a compelling responsibility to advocate for its protection. This deep connection fuelled my dedication towards pursuing sustainability, particularly through interdisciplinary solutions around the intersection of planetary and human health.

During my B.Sc. Physiology & Environment at McGill University, sustainable development amidst the climate crisis formed an evident passion that guided my subsequent professional endeavours. Gaining over two years of invaluable work experience at a management consulting firm focused on international development, I was able to better grasp the complexity and nuances of global challenges. 

Building on the experiences offered through my studies, work, and volunteering, Sciences Po’s Master in Environmental Policy became the evident next step as I sought to explore further knowledge and training around how to equitably protect our planet alongside its people. 

Emily: As part of the Climate Adaptation, Resilience and Empowerment Program, the CARE Scholarship is dedicated to facilitating cross-cultural exchange between France and Canada in the areas of environmental sustainability, climate adaptation and resilience, and the energy transition. I am deeply grateful to have received the CARE Scholarship, as it has opened the door for me to pursue a Master’s in Environmental Policy at Sciences Po - an opportunity that would have otherwise been out of reach.

Being a part of this programme is a tremendous honour, affording me the privilege to dedicate the next two years to deepening my understanding of the climate crisis, emerging policy solutions, and global cooperation in a cross-cultural and international context. With a strong commitment to climate action, I am confident that this experience will enable me to make more meaningful and impactful change in my future work.

Shaida: Within the critical context of the climate crisis, the CARE Scholarship is an incredible initiative seeking to further bridge international knowledge and perspectives towards innovative, effective solutions. Being awarded this scholarship is an immense privilege, and I am greatly appreciative of the opportunity to participate in the formative years of the programme, further advancing and shaping its trajectory.

As society faces urgent challenges, fostering collaboration is imperative, and it is truly an honour to connect with like-minded individuals striving to create global change. In relieving much of the financial burden of international studies, The CARE scholarship has enabled me to affirm my direction and supported me in making it a reality.

Emily: Sciences Po’s Master in Environmental Policy caught my attention due to its multidisciplinary and practical approach to addressing global environmental and sustainable development challenges. Having completed an undergraduate degree with a focus in the natural sciences and ecological fieldwork, I was excited to discover a programme that offers a holistic perspective on environmental challenges, including the social, political, legal, and economic aspects.

The programme also provides an unparalleled international learning opportunity, encouraging the exchange of knowledge from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. This cultivates values of partnership and collaboration while enhancing our understanding of one another.

Shaida: Sciences Po provides the opportunity to engage with the highest caliber of study whilst harnessing the powerful diversity of learners and experts from around the world. A strong representation of international students captured my attention, and I was equally drawn to the unique flexibility of the programme structure. The Master's offers a breadth of courses that range across technical and thematic specialisations, in both French and English. I have greatly appreciated this ability to tailor my studies to my individual interests and experience, benefiting from diversity in all aspects of my education.

Being taught by highly inspirational practitioners who are leaders in their fields provides a remarkable opportunity to combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on training that best prepares students for subsequent professional endeavours.

Emily: My advice for future students is to appreciate this incredible opportunity. It’s important to understand the value of this experience and the impact you can make with it moving forward!

Otherwise, I’d advise future students to make connections and get involved. Don’t underestimate the importance of building community during your time at Sciences Po. These connections will not only make Paris feel more like home, but they will also become an essential part of your network moving forward in life.

Shaida: The CARE Scholarship offers a wealth of expansive opportunities. My advice for future applicants would be to remain genuinely engaged in your alignment with the programme’s goals and values, whilst exploring and participating in the vast experiences situated within the broader context of your studies

Seize the chance to reach out, take chances, and participate in an abundance of novelty that will not only challenge you to explore new ideas, but to do so from different angles and perspectives. Remember to engage critically, reflect upon your positionality, and remain open-minded as you seek to develop a more holistic understanding of the complexity surrounding sustainability challenges alongside avenues towards a better global future.

Both: Expansive!