Making a Difference at Dal: Zoë Caron

At Dalhousie, learning extends beyond the classroom. Many students are making a significant difference in the wider community while achieving success within the classroom.  This year, the department of Student Services began an initiative called "Making a Difference at Dal," recognizing outstanding student achievements within the Dalhousie community and beyond. This week, Dal News profiles these five students.

Zoë Caron, a vibrant BC native, is completing a Bachelor of Science degree with a double major in International Development Studies and Environmental Sciences. Caron says her passion for environmentalism and community involvement can be traced back to two summers ago when she attended a climate change conference. "It was at this event that I really started to understand the issues that we were facing," she says.
   
That event was just the beginning. Now in her fourth and final year of study, Caron's list of accomplishments reads like an impressive resume, one that even David Suzuki might note. Her experiences include acting as the Atlantic Youth Coordinator for the Sierra Youth Coalition, being part of the Canadian Youth Climate Coalition, becoming a DSU Senator and co-founding the Dalhousie Integrated Sustainability Initiative (DISI). As if she wasn't busy enough, Caron agreed to co-author a book with Federal Green Party leader Elizabeth May entitled Global Warming for Dummies. Not bad for a student who hasn't even reached her 22nd birthday.
   
"If you have an issue, then you should do something about it." 

Caron's concern about environmental issues reflects the same issues raised by Canadians throughout the country. "This is a critical and unique point in time … the first time the environment has been recognized to be such an important issue by the public, who are beginning to place it above such things as health care. Now is the time to make changes," she says.
   
Caron's voluntary and extracurricular experiences have taught her many lessons that complement those she has learned in the classroom. While she plans on continuing her involvement with environmental issues, she is continuously pursuing new avenues for her future. "There are many organizations that have opportunities and internships," she says. "It is really important for young people to get involved in areas such as the media and politics. If you have an issue, then you should do something about it."

Do you know a student who is making a difference at Dal? Let us know! Send suggestions to Student Services at student.services@dal.ca, with the subject line "Making a Difference at Dal."