Behind the Lab: Spotlight on Jess Wong, Research Assistant
Hello everyone, my name is Jess Wong. I am thrilled to share my journey as I embark on a summer internship with the Christmas Tree Lab at the University of Waterloo. As a Master's student in Climate Change, this opportunity represents a convergence of my academic passions, professional experiences, and personal commitment to environmental sustainability.
Growing up amidst the bustling Hong Kong, I vividly recall the annual tradition of assembling a plastic Christmas tree—a commonplace practice in densely populated urban landscapes where the luxury of real trees was rare. Even in my youth, I couldn't shake the persistent notion that there had to be a more ecologically conscientious approach to celebrating the holiday season. This intrinsic curiosity about sustainable practices has propelled me towards the doors of the Christmas Tree Lab.
What captivates me most about this opportunity is the Lab's dedication to advancing sustainable practices within the Christmas tree industry. Their commitment to community engagement and real-world impact resonates deeply with me. In a world facing unprecedented environmental challenges, it is crucial to bridge the gap between academic research and practical solutions. The Christmas Tree Lab's approach embodies this ethos, making it an ideal environment for me to contribute meaningfully to the fight against climate change. Throughout my Master's studies, I have had the opportunity to explore the intricate relationship between environmental factors and agricultural productivity, particularly within the context of key crop species in Ontario. Armed with this knowledge, I am eager to apply it to the specific context of Christmas tree farming in southern Ontario.
My passion for experiencing different work and cultures has also played an important role in shaping my experience. Before embarking on my Master's, I had worked in the financial industry in Hong Kong, where I witnessed firsthand the growing importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in driving global development. Additionally, my academic journey at University College London in the UK, where I obtained a Master's degree in Technology Entrepreneurship, honed my ability to engage stakeholders and develop innovative solutions to complex problems.
Complementing my academic and professional experiences, I have actively engaged in volunteer work, particularly with non-profit organizations focused on climate change and sustainability. For instance, I worked with Reep Green Solutions, a local environmental non-profit in Waterloo, to provide public tours demonstrating energy-saving retrofits to the neighbourhood. Through this hands-on experience, I gained firsthand insights into the challenges and opportunities of community engagement around sustainability initiatives.
While skyscrapers loomed overhead during my formative years, I have always felt at peace in nature. Whether it was hiking along nearby mountain trails or kayaking across the shimmering seas, I cherished every opportunity to immerse myself in the boundless beauty of the natural world. The chance to contribute to the preservation and safeguarding of these invaluable ecosystems, particularly amidst the looming specter of climate change, resonates as a deeply personal mission for me.
As I embark on this journey with the Christmas Tree Lab, I'm eager to learn from seasoned experts while contributing my unique perspectives and skills. Together, let's shape a future where Christmas trees symbolize not just tradition, but also resilience and environmental stewardship.