Students

Convocation ‘23: Adam Fast, MSc, Plant Science

Donna McKinnon - 7 June 2023

 

Growing up in Lethbridge, Adam Fast was surrounded by some of Alberta’s richest farmland. More than serving as a backdrop to his life, however, it was also the inspiration to pursue an undergraduate degree in agricultural studies at the University of Lethbridge, followed by a graduate degree in plant science at the University of Alberta.  

Intent on improving crop production for Canadian farmers, Adam’s research focused on the integration of enhanced efficiency fertilizers and nitrogen rates on western red spring wheat production in the Canadian prairies. Enthusiastic about the subject matter and keen to share the knowledge he gained while conducting this research, Adam received several first place finishes for his conference presentations here in Canada and the United States.  

Attending conferences and industry events was the highlight of his graduate program, says Adam, adding that it is a fantastic way to meet people and build future collaboration and career opportunities.

Now working as a field research associate for Lethbridge-based BASF, a large agricultural company conducting crop protection research, Adam is excited to begin a career in an industry he loves.  

Congratulations Adam!

 

What led you to choose your current area of study, and why the U of A for your studies?

I always had a passion for science and gained a lot of technical experience working in agronomic research during my undergrad, so I was eager to combine these and learn more by undertaking a masters degree. I also wanted to increase my skill set in agronomy, statistics, writing and presenting. 

I chose the University of Alberta for grad school because the scientist I worked for at the time was an adjunct professor in the Department of Agricultural, Food & Nutritional Science. This created a nice collaboration opportunity, where I could work on a large-scale interprovincial agronomic study that would also fulfill the requirements for a MSc. Plus, the U of A has some outstanding classes and professors in the field of agriculture that benefited me greatly. 

What is one of your favourite memories from your time at the U of A?

Any opportunity to present my research! I was fortunate enough to talk about my research at many farmer field days, industry meetings, guest lectures and academic conferences. Of these, presenting at the Joint Meeting of the Canadian Weed Science Society and Canadian Society of Agronomy in Halifax, NS, and the 2023 Plant Science Graduate Student Symposium in Fargo, ND, were my most memorable. I was also fortunate enough to place first in the agronomy oral presentations at each conference.

Tell us about your favourite professor and/or class.

My favourite class was a graduate individual study based on PL SC 355 – Cereal, Oilseed, and Pulse Crops. I gained valuable knowledge regarding the major crops grown in western Canada and was genuinely intrigued each week on what we were learning. Plus, Keisha Hollman and Izabela Ciechanowska were great instructors!

Did you take on any leadership roles while you were a student? 

During my second year, I became a member of my local rotary club (Lethbridge East). I presented at meetings and helped spread awareness of their new scholarship program for agricultural students from southern Alberta. I also served on the 2023 adjudication committee, where I helped determine the most recent scholarship recipients. This was a truly rewarding experience, being able to give back to a great organization that has benefitted myself and is continuing to benefit upcoming agriculture students. 

Did you face any significant obstacles or challenges during your program?

The majority of my MSc was remote in nature, and I spent a lot of time by myself doing coursework and writing my thesis. It was difficult not having access to a supervisor right down the hall, or a cohort of students who all shared the same building that you saw every day; however, I steadily pushed through with many zoom calls, emails, texts and hard work.

What advice do you have for current and future students?

Keep your eyes open for interesting opportunities and go for them. Join a club or professional society and keep in touch with the people you meet (Twitter or LinkedIn are great for this). The highlight of my MSc was going to conferences and industry events and talking with so many people. It’s a fantastic way to network and create future job or collaboration opportunities.

How do you plan on celebrating convocation?

I really want to take in the experience of the day. My in-person undergrad convocation was canceled, so I am looking forward to seeing everyone and walking across the stage. I will also spend time with my family who has supported me from the beginning.

What's next after graduation?

I am currently working for a large agricultural company conducting crop protection research. I am very excited to have started an amazing career and can’t wait to see what the future holds!