Jan. 13, 2017
Alumni Spotlight: Rob Roach, BA'92, MA'00 (Political Science)
![Rob Roach headshot. He is wearing a suit and facing the camera.](/news/sites/default/files/styles/ucws_news_hero_image_desktop/public/2018-12/roachphotojan2015-news.png?itok=urwbmAPv)
Rob Roach is the Director of Insight with ATB Financial. In his role he has the opportunity to write and talk about the issues that affect Alberta's long-term prosperity and quality of life.
What is your favourite University of Calgary memory?
There are lots! My first time working the 30-second clock at a Dino’s basketball game was pretty cool.
What was your favourite campus hang out spot?
My friends and I spent a lot of time on what we called the “cushy seats” by the west entrance to Mac Hall. I also spent a fair bit of time in the smoking lounge by the Social Science theatres. A different time!
If you could give one piece of advice to a student completing the same degree that you did, what would it be?
I think this applies to all degrees – take time to interact with your professors and make it meaningful. For example, stop by during office hours to ask a question that you have spent some time pondering. Don’t be anonymous.
What is the best thing about your job?
I get to research interesting subjects and work with people who want to make our home – Alberta – an even better place.
How did your arts degree help you get to where you are now/your current career?
It was essential. It gave me the background knowledge, the research skills and the inspiration to be a life-long learner. This has enabled me to be a valuable asset to the different teams I have been a part of over my career.
Do you have any other thoughts or memories you would like to share?
The stuff I learned—especially the core themes—has stayed with me but it’s the people that made the experience so special. I had great profs and great friends at the U of C. It was a community not just a place to get a degree.