My experience with FOGs has been one of the most meaningful parts of my time at Western. I first got involved in September 2022, when I joined a seed collection tour as a first-year student, and over the next four years, FOGs became the place where I felt most connected to the Western community. As a business student, it was especially rewarding to step into a completely different environment—working in the greenhouse, cleaning and preparing seeds, contributing to art and craft activities, supporting plant sales and events, and attending sustainability meetings. Through these experiences, I learned so much about native plants, pollinators, and sustainability.
What made FOGs truly special to me was not just the work but the people. Everyone was incredibly welcoming, knowledgeable, and supportive, and I always felt included. Over my university years, I explored different clubs, but FOGs was the only one I stayed with throughout all four years—and even now, I still wish I could continue. I also really appreciated the flexibility of volunteering, as I could sign up for events based on my schedule, which made it manageable even during busy academic periods.
Looking back, I’m very grateful for the opportunity to contribute, whether through volunteering in daily tasks or helping support initiatives like seed packaging and plant sales. I only wish I had joined even earlier, as there is still so much I didn’t get the chance to experience, which is why I would encourage anyone interested to get involved as early as possible. FOGs offers a unique and fulfilling way to connect, learn, and grow during your time at Western.
Rainbow, FOGS volunteer, 2022- 2026
Congratulations to Business School graduate, Rainbow and thank you for all your hard work and support at FOGS!