Matias T.

Biography

Matias Totz attended St. Michaels University School for his high school years. He was a member of the SHAD design team that won top prize for innovating a wearable carbon monoxide monitor to help save lives in the event of a wildfire. Founding his school’s first Marine Science Club to mentor students about Salish Sea marine life and ocean conservation. Helping to pilot and roll out the Music & Memory Program at the Veteran’s Lodge where he volunteers and witnessed first-hand how the power of music can drastically improve the quality of life of lonely or cognitively-impaired seniors. Its warm and welcoming community is where Matias could quickly feel at home.

UCalgary’s ability to prepare students with the technical and non-technical skills necessary to succeed in rapidly-evolving economies such as the energy and technology sectors. Matias is interested in how society can improve through technological innovation, business leadership, and teamwork. He hopes to develop important critical thinking, interpersonal, and creativity skills to succeed in tomorrow’s workplace. Having grown up on the Salish Sea, Matias's aspirations are to merge his interests in business, technology, and environmental science to help solve global issues such as ocean pollution, sustainable food, biodiversity protection or renewable energy sources.

This has given Matias the confidence that he can help make a difference in the world. Inspired him to get involved in the Calgary community, grow his leadership skills, explore study abroad and coop work opportunities, and make connections with like-minded students.