Hi! I’m Rylee (She/Her), and I’m entering my 4th and final year in my BA, double majoring in Human Geography and History. I want to experience the most that I can before leaving my undergraduate studies, and I can’t imagine anything more fitting than being an exec for GAPSS.
I had never heard of Human Geography until I saw it as a course option when registering for year 1. On the first day of HGEO 100, my professor introduced the subject to us with Gritzner’s definition of geography, “what is where, why there, and why care?” and I’ve been captivated ever since. With my degree, I’m able to expand my knowledge and passion for the intersection of people and place, and how it has shaped the past and present of our world.
Beyond academics, I’m a proud owner of the two cutest dogs, Dallas and Oslo, have a severe caffeine addiction, and love travelling (cue me talking about the year I lived in the Netherlands). I’m known to be outgoing, confident, and somewhat of a jack of all trades with a wide variety of life experiences and hobbies.
I’ve been a participating member of the student societies for both sides of my degree through my academic career. This year, I have been a member of the Academic Committee, taking on the role of Section Editor for Topophilia. As well, I participated in the logo redesign contest, and my design was selected as the new logo for GAPSS!
As a candidate for Vice President External, I am committed to advancing our society's outreach, networking, and communication efforts. I have crafted initiatives that will not only enhance our society's outreach and communication but also ensure tangible progress for our members.
These plans are not concepts but strategies that I am fully prepared to implement upon election. From conducting an audit and student satisfaction survey on our newsletters to forging partnerships with community organizations, each initiative is rooted in a deep understanding of GAPSS' needs and aspirations.
Furthermore, my collaborative approach is evident in my intention to work closely with the VP Marketing to structure our efforts for the upcoming academic year. By establishing a cohesive Outreach team and leveraging our combined expertise, we will amplify GAPSS' presence and impact both on and off-campus.
Additionally, my commitment extends to ensuring transparency and accessibility for our members. Through initiatives such as creating an online archive for newsletter editions, I seek to provide valuable resources that empower our community and preserve the legacy of our efforts.
As well, I intend to renew YIMBY, the GAPSS Blog, recognizing its untapped potential as a liaison between the Newsletter and Topophilia, by convening with the Academic team to strategize on how to recreate and revitalize it for mutual benefit and enhanced engagement.
As your VP External, I am committed to upholding GAPSS's mission and vision, fostering a dynamic and inclusive environment for students in human geography and planning, and creating a more connected GAPSS community.