Gayla Weeks

I began my studies with the diploma challenge program at NorQuest College in September 2001. I had been out of school for over 20 years and had decided to get my high school education towards a goal of entering the faculty of Science at the University of Alberta. I was successful in completing my upgrading within a very short time with the assistance of the supportive instructors of this very intense program.

Following my graduation from NorQuest College I was accepted at the University of Alberta and graduated with a double degree in both Earth and Atmospheric Sciences and Biological Sciences. I am now a Masters student at York University in Toronto, ON, where I do research studying the biogeochemical flux of carbon and nitrogen from the Mackenzie Delta to the Arctic Ocean. This summer I will spend my field season in Inuvik, NWT evaluating the fate of dissolved organic carbon due to permafrost degradation in the lakes and rivers of  the Mackenzie Delta.

I have just written my thesis proposal and was struck with how far I have come since beginning my studies at NorQuest College. There were times I didn't think it would ever be possible to achieve my goal of polar research as I was starting my studies so late in life. The partnership of my hard work and determination together with the kindness and encouragement I received by instructors such as Peter Macintosh allowed me to achievemy goal. Thank you,

Gayla