Koning has always been interested in astronomy; she got involved with the Royal Astronomical Society in Calgary in her early teens and has never looked back!  Astronomy has always held an intrigue and interest for her so when it was time to choose a university program, it was a natural choice. 

Once Alice arrived at UVic, she was delighted to discover how exceptional the astronomy program was.  Given the fact that Victoria is home to the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory and Herzberg Institute of Astrophysics (HIA), allowed for plenty of interaction and collaboration between students and professors at UVic and researchers at HIA.

Alice took full advantage of the fact that UVic boasts the distinction of having Canada’s biggest on-campus telescope.  She was fortunate to have unlimited access to this equipment that she felt greatly enhanced her learning. 

She also participated in numerous coop terms:  two at HIA in Victoria, one at the University of Alberta, and her last work term will be this summer at the Gemini Observatory located in Chile.  

Alice is grateful for the support she received from fellow students, staff, coop supervisors and all of her professors.  She felt extremely comfortable approaching any one of her professors for advice; not just on that course, but what kinds of opportunities would be available once she finished her degree and what courses should she consider taking in future years.  They were always more than happy to take the time to talk with her.

She found volunteering at the Wednesday evening astronomy open houses was extremely rewarding and exciting due to the fact that she was able to work on her data while sharing her knowledge and interest with the public. 

When asked what advice she would give to incoming students, Alice replied, “Get to know your teachers; this helped me out on numerous occasions.  Get involved with volunteering.  Clubs are good as well but volunteering gives you an opportunity to talk about what you love with the public, who come because they are interested and want to learn.  Volunteering is a stress-free and great experience”. 

Alice plans on going to graduate school and will continue her volunteer work with astronomical societies.

Learn more about Physics and Astronomy and coop