Alumni Spotlight: Rob Roach, BA'92, MA'00 (Political Science)

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.