Interview with Connor Silverthorn (read Veronica's interview here)

1) Why did you decide to join the co-op program?

I grew up as a Kootenay boy in Nelson, and when UVic came to my highschool and described the UVic Co-op Program as on of the greatest co-op programs in Canada, I knew I wanted to join. The ability to observe and study nature, ecology, and wildlife is enthralling for me.

2) What were your work term responsibilities during your work term with WWOOF?

Our tasks always varied throughout the term. They included: harvesting, preparing, and storing fruits, herbs, and vegetables; milking, herding, and feeding livestock (cow, goat, sheep); practical building such as fencing for new pastures, compost bins, chicken coops;and  dairy fabrication from on-farm, self-prep milk.

3) What were your work term goals?

I had hoped to learn the fundamentals and specific details of running an organic farm, especially in biological terms. Unfortuneatly, the biology factor of the term was somewhat lacking, but I definitely learned a lot. WWOOFing perfectly integrated our studies in natural sciences (biology) and social sciences (environtment), which I would argue is very pertinant for future studies of ecological problems.

4) What was the biggest surprise about your work term?

We were able to travel across southern Europe at the end of our term.

5) What made you excited about going to work?

I really loved working with large animals, since this was great preparation for vet school and my own dreams of one day sharing a farm with neighbours.

6) How did you use your competencies in the workplace?

I was able to be adaptable, co-operative, and a leader. I was able to use and improve my second language, worked in close association with my girlfriend and the host's family; and used my organizational skills to manage the overall trip. I became more self-dependent, open to new tasks, and a better organizer.

7) What about your international competencies?

I was able to use the French language and adapt to the French way of life, including the french diet.

8) What advice do you have for students who are thinking about taking part in an international co-op experience?

WWOOFing is a great way to travel, learn practical farming skills, volunteer, and learn new languages.

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Interview with Veronica Norbury

1) Who is Veronica Norbury?

I am in my third year of a biology major/environmental studies minor, with aspirations of pursuing ecology or marine biology. I grew up in Shawnigan Lake with frequent escapades to the Gulf Islands to visit family. I love Vancouver Island.

2) What made you want to work for an international employer?

I could have WOOFed anywhere in Canada, but I love to travel, and I wanted to practice my French in another culture. I was excited about gaining exposure to a new climate, flora/fauna, language, and great food.

3) What were your work term responsibilities during your work term with WWOOF?

This was a volunteer position in Southern France, where I worked and lived as a farmer on two different farms. The first was a donkey farm, the second a cheese farm with cows, chickens, goats, sheep, and more donkeys. My duties included farm maintenance, feeding the animals, milking cows, goats, and sheep (the most difficult animal), herding sheep and goats, making cheese, yogurt, ice-cream, and harvesting fruits/nuts/vegetables. I learned a lot about farming, hard work, the French culture, and even naturopathic medicine.

4) What were your work term goals?

I hoped to learn how to operate a small-scale, backyard organic farm.

5) What was the biggest surprise about your work term?

Both of our hosts depended on income from their production and extra services (like vacation rentals), but could not afford to eat some of their OWN products, like cheese, or fancy dried sausage.

6) How did your work term relate to your academic studies?

I am interested in the food system and how organic agriculture can compete with the contemporary system. This co-op may not relate directly to ecology, but in addition to my career, I hope to run an organic farm. I really appreciated that this work term let me go abroad, practice a second language, and work closing with plants and animals OUTSIDE.

7) How did this work term help you in your career journey?

I am now certain that my career must be predominantly outdoors, involving field work with plants and animals and active research. I find it difficult sitting through indoor classes all day and studying in front of computer for hours. WWOOFing offers a new approach to learning that is practical, hands-on, productive, and more easily retained.

8) What advice do you have for students who are thinking about taking part in an international co-op experience?

Do it!

10) What are your plans for the future?

I intend to finish my degree in Biology, in addition to 2 more co-ops, travel, and go to graduate school. From there, I would like to work as an ecologist or field biologist, and likely obtain my PhD.