Rachel Gao

Why did you apply for the Master of Land and Water Systems?

I would like to undertake the master of Land and water system program at UBC because I am very dedicated to a career in urban environmental design that incorporates urban land and water management and urban rainwater strategy. My background is in urban forestry, which composes of scientific, economics and sociology elements. During the field schools to learn more about forests and their ecosystem services, it became apparent that land and water systems are integral parts of urban forestry and each component is critical to successful urban environmental design which is what I am pursuing as a career. In my opinion, the problems that urbanists should tackle are firstly environmental issues such as water and air quality, land degradation, natural resource depletion. When those problems are attended to, we can successfully build green and smart cities, more effectively. The MLWS program covers topics in land, water and soil processes in the format of seminars, lectures and projects, which greatly suits my need to advance my academic knowledge and professional skills.

What are you most excited about learning in the MLWS program?

I look forward to engaging in important dialogues on environmental issues and carry out effective research in the MLWS program, also as a preparation for my career. Continuing to study at UBC with world-renowned instructors, and peers from all over the world will also enrich my journey as a future urban environmental designer and allow me to build networks that will encourage both personal and professional growth.

What are some of your favourite hobbies?

Watching movies, listening to music, photography, gardening, and cooking.