Colin Robinson (Sc ‘14) discovered the value of integrating his interest in science with his passion for the humanities while earning an Environmental Science degree. Following graduation, he found a role with a progressive-thinking company that aims to enhance the economic and social standing among First Nations people across Canada.
As a student, Colin took advantage of extra-curricular opportunities that have helped to shape his worldview and direct his career.
“I benefitted greatly from my experiences outside of the classroom, which were, in my view, equally if not more formative than my academic training,” he says. “Despite being in a university context, the volunteer work I did reflects the dynamics of the real, working world.”
In his final year at Queen’s, Colin took on a one-year stint as Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainability with the Alma Mater Society. While there, he sharpened his organizational and management skills. He then sought a position that would allow him to combine his quantitative and analytical abilities with an ideology grounded in the humanities.
“My degree is in the sciences, but the an interdisciplinary degree like Environmental Studies allowed me to gain a broader perspective, studying politics and international development. The humanities have been critical to my degree,” says Colin. He also took a minor in English Literature.
It took almost a year, but through perseverance and a few chance meetings, Colin found the job that suits him perfectly. He learned about The Castlemain Group, a company founded by two Queen’s alumni, Stefan Moores (Artsci’98) and Robert McPhee (Artsci’97). Based in Vancouver and Toronto, Castlemain provides industry-leading advisory services to First Nations communities, with a focus on management consulting, finance, technology solutions and communications.
As Project Coordinator, Colin is responsible for developing projects across the country that “put in place more robust economic development structures and build capacity within First Nations communities to promote self-sustainability.”
He also puts his English minor to work, supporting in the communications arm of the firm. Colin attributes his early-career success to his Queen’s experience that showed him how to integrate his strengths, interests, and passions to find a place in the world.
A determined attitude helps too. “Opportunities don’t come to you. You have to seek them out,” he says.
