Robin Brooks (civil engineering)
My name is Robin Brooks, and I grew up on the lands of the Ts'uubaa-asatx peoples (commonly known as Lake Cowichan, BC). I am entering my fourth year of Civil Engineering at the University of Victoria where I study in hopes of contributing to the field of sustainable design and resource planning.
At the present, I am working on a research project at the Federal University of Minas Gerais located in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, within the Department of Environmental and Sanitary Engineering. This research group and myself are contributing to a number of national and international initiatives, but I am primarily focused on the surveillance of antimicrobial resistance indicators. The work takes place within a public university, and is conducted by a team of masters and PhD students, as well as graduates, professors, and an international network.
Finding an international work term
My initial efforts to secure an international work term were rooted in interest for cultural experience, language and travel. When exploring my options, Brazil stood out due to the rich diversity of its people and topography, as well as its prominence in the field of wastewater system research.
Luckily, the experience has not been disappointing in any regard. Building a relationship with my Portuguese teacher enhanced my experience greatly, leading to learning how to make pão de queijo, stroganoff and brigadeiro.
My trip overlapped with Carnaval, with this city being one of the largest and most celebrated, which was one of my personal highlights!
Overcoming obstacles
Though the trip was amazing, many challenges had to be overcome. Not many people speak English, therefore I had to rely on my language studies much more than anticipated not only to build relationships, but to navigate the needs of everyday life.
A willingness to try expanded the depth of my experience, introducing me to friends who I lived with. One of which did not speak English, leading to many late nights of laughter, collaboration, and of course, misunderstandings.
Advice for other students
When reflecting on the choice to do an international co-op, I feel grateful for my commitment and eagerness to see it through. If contemplating, I highly suggest taking advantage of the university resources and global network to spend time abroad.
Doing something of this scale post graduation often incurs missed job opportunities and professional sacrifices, both of which are served by such an experience while still in school. Additionally, I would suggest exploring options beyond those that are posted as official internships.
To obtain my role, I networked with global researchers, exploring options and placements that could fulfil university requirements. Funding can be secured from a number of awards, grants and scholarships, therefore supplementing a position that may have much lower pay than in Canada, reducing the financial burden of relocation.
Lastly, I’ll say that it may seem daunting or demanding, but the most challenging part is deciding to go. The resources, support and places are there, take advantage!