Lac La Biche, AB — For Ryan Riberdy, the first sign that Portage College would be different from other post-secondary choices came on day one—on a soccer field, tossing a frisbee with his new instructors.
Raised in a larger city, Riberdy arrived in Lac La Biche unsure of what to expect from a smaller, rural campus. That uncertainty quickly disappeared during orientation, when students and faculty gathered for a friendly game of frisbee. “I can’t think of any other learning institution where I’ve had that experience,” Riberdy recalls.
“That feeling of equality and inclusion with instructors and classmates on the very first day helped me realize I had made the right decision.”
Riberdy enrolled in the Environmental Technologist Diploma program to challenge himself, experience something new, and gain interdisciplinary knowledge. The program delivered on all fronts. Coursework spanned a broad range of subject areas, providing a well-rounded education that balanced classroom learning with hands-on field trips and labs in the natural landscapes surrounding Lac La Biche.
“The opportunity to apply what we learned in real-world settings made all the difference,” says Riberdy. “If you appreciate the natural world and want to put your knowledge to work, this is the program for you.”
During his studies, Riberdy lived in Portage College residence—his first experience living away from home. Supported by caring and accommodating housing staff, he found the residence to be a comfortable, well-furnished environment that encouraged both studying and community life. Outside of class, he frequently explored the Lakeland region and built friendships that continue to this day.
“At Portage, it’s not just about studying for exams,” he explains. “It’s about exploring the community, trying new things, and building connections. Those relationships made organizing study sessions and supporting each other through exams much easier.”
Now accepted into a Master of Science program at the University of Alberta, Riberdy credits Portage College with preparing him for further academic success thanks to a more personalized experience.
“That’s where Portage stands out,” Riberdy says. “Smaller classes and close interaction with instructors make experiential learning possible. The Environmental Technologist Diploma is an excellent starting point for a meaningful career and a strong foundation for further education.”
Riberdy, who graduated with distinction in 2023, says his time at Portage College remains a defining part of his educational journey.
“I’m grateful for the experience and would recommend Portage College to anyone considering it. If you’re thinking about it—go for it.”
— Ryan Riberdy
Environmental Technologist Diploma (with Distinction), Class of 2023
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