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Marcus Capaz
Marcus Capaz
EASC Undergraduate Student
Major: Earth Sciences, Geology Stream
What got you interested in Earth Sciences?
Before university, I had some experience with placer gold mining and panning so ‘gold fever’ might have been a factor. However, I have always been successful at and interested in science, particularly chemistry and geography in high school, so Earth Sciences seemed to be a good fit. On top of that, the career opportunities in the field of geosciences are excellent and I have always enjoyed physical work, so being able to work outdoors with my hands was a great prospect for me.
What is your Stream? Why did you choose this?
I chose the geology stream as I am interested in petrology, ore deposits, and metals in general. Working in mineral exploration has been quite fun; putting together the pieces of geological information to form an interpretive understanding of a formation or deposit is a good challenge.
What has been your best learning experience?
Any course with a field component tends to result in a fun learning experience. I find that hands-on learning is very effective and having such an excellent cohort of peers to experience it with made it all the better. From the intense geological mapping done in EASC 306 to wind-induced tent destruction in the Channeled Scablands, I have found field trips in the department to be important in both enforcing our knowledge and providing opportunities to build and strengthen friendships. I would also have to mention that the professors have been exceedingly welcoming to questions, giving their time generously and allowing me to learn much more through one-on-one conversations.
What are you passionate about?
I am passionate about mining and its potential to improve our collective quality of life and in the power of innovation and ingenuity to improve the cost-benefit ratio of this practice (and many others). It may be easy to demonize the practice of resource extraction, especially in the face of climate change, but that alone won’t change the fact that even green energy technologies require metals. Canada is blessed with a wealth of resources and, with appropriate management and regulation, mining can be conducted with a reduced environmental impact while greatly improving economic conditions.
Marcus in the field during EASC 408
Have you completed co-op or other work experience during your studies?
Yes, I have worked two summers in the field of mineral exploration as a Geotech and a Junior Geologist. I have been very fortunate to have had a wide variety of experiences in that time including sampling in the field as well as work in the core shack and on mine sites. Working intermittently during my studies has allowed me to learn about many mineral deposits across the province.
What advice would you offer current/future students?
The most important advice I could offer is to apply for summer jobs; do not be ashamed of feeling like you haven’t taken enough courses yet as geologists love to share their knowledge with anyone crazy enough to listen. Working is not only good for your wallet; it can provide useful experience to help you improve your understanding and confidence in your academic work. Second, try to plan and manage your courses; its not worth leaving your non-EASC pre-requisite courses for later so power through them to avoid hiccups when you get to the good stuff. Third, and I know its cliché, but try to have fun. This is not a four-year degree and there’s no point rushing to try to make it one. Having small class sizes is a luxury and I recommend taking advantage of that to make friends with your classmates and teachers; you will be seeing a lot of them, but I think you can make that a good thing.
Marcus Capaz, summer field work