Interview with Johannah Brockie
Tell us about yourself and why you chose the International Development Studies program at the University of Guelph?
Several members of my family, including my grandfather and cousin, attended U of G, so the university already felt familiar to me. What really sealed the deal, though, was its well-established International Development Studies program. I was excited to join a program that had already been shaped and strengthened by years of experience.
Like many first-year IDEV students, I came in with big ambitions. I thought I was going to save the world! But the more I studied development through a global lens, the more I became curious about my local communities and how I could make a difference closer to home.
I’d also be remiss not to mention the food. U of G’s reputation for having the best campus dining in Canada absolutely mattered to me as a perpetually hungry student. Combined with the beautiful green campus—with plenty of space, but not so much that it felt overwhelming—it made U of G an easy choice. I still remember visiting on a sunny spring day and immediately knowing this was where I belonged.
What did you like most about your program? Is there anything in particular about the courses or professors that stands out to you?
The flexibility. My degree was truly customizable. I completed three field school experiences in Finland, India, and the Netherlands, and paired my International Development degree with a Certificate in Civic Engagement and Global Citizenship. That ensured I gained local experience and perspectives through placements at community organizations and neighbourhood groups. These opportunities gave me a grounded perspective and practical experience that continue to shape how I approach leadership and decision-making today.
I also had incredible professors who made a lasting impact. In my first year, Dr. Jane Ngobia made me feel capable of more than I ever believed possible. Her confidence in me raised the bar for what I thought I could achieve. Dr. Steffi Hamann was another professor who stood out because she created space for me to ask questions, work through challenges, and keep pushing forward. I often think about the roommates, classmates, and mentors who supported me through my studies (looking at you, economics). The community and networks of support I was able to create during my time at U of G are a major reason I was able to successfully complete my studies.
Where are you currently working and what is your role?
I work at the Nature Conservancy of Canada as the Coordinator, Federal Funding Programs.
How did your degree and time at the University of Guelph help get you to where you are today? How do the skills and education you gained help with your current work?
Much of what I gained at U of G came outside of the classroom. Time management, balancing multiple priorities, and learning to communicate effectively were all skills I built through extracurriculars and leadership roles. Academically, the IDEV program gave me a global perspective and cross-cultural communication skills that are essential in my work today.
Most importantly, I had mentors and peers who believed in me. In my first year, I ambitiously ran for the Central Student Association (CSA) Board of Directors. Sonia, an upper-year student, guided me through the process and gave me the encouragement I needed to succeed. I hustled and spent endless hours creating my “Go with the Jo” campaign: equipped with pins I made on the CSA pin-maker until my hands hurt, posters I had carefully budgeted for, and even a music video I roped my roommates into helping me film, which I can only hope is not searchable.
I take student leadership seriously, what can I say? I ended up winning against a fourth-year student running for the same position. That experience, and Sonia’s mentorship, taught me to stop putting limits on myself. It’s a lesson I carry with me to this day.
What advice would you give someone considering the International Development Studies program or applying to the University of Guelph?
One of the best choices I made was to meet regularly with my academic counsellor. They are there to support you, and I found those conversations invaluable. I scheduled an appointment before every course selection period, which kept me on track and ensured my courses aligned with my goals. That habit gave me clarity and kept me motivated throughout my degree.
For anyone at U of G: make use of the student services! You are entitled to them all through your tuition. When you do a campus tour, ask about what services are available to you and how the campus can support you. From counselling and health services to clubs and career resources, there are countless supports built into student life. Some of the most important experiences I had at U of G happened because I went looking for opportunities and asked questions. Don’t be afraid to explore what’s available.
Bonus Questions
Where was your favourite place to eat on campus and what was your go-to food order?
Other than the too-late-at-night coffee runs to Tims and Starbucks during exam season, Creelman Hall veggie quesadillas were a close second to the Bullring's antojitos; my favourite.
In your opinion where is the best place to study on campus?
In the warmer months, always outside. Johnston Green or a quiet patch of grass near the older north-end buildings were my favourites.
In cooler months, I often studied on the upper floors of MacKinnon. Those office hallways were quiet, tucked away, and perfect for getting work done. I also made good use of the private study rooms in the library and the coffee shop space in Lennox Addington.
What was your pre-exam ritual?
I usually started by reviewing concepts on my own, then met up with classmates to talk through any gaps. I often sought advice from upper-year students and TAs as well, since they had already been through the material.
On the morning of an exam, I reviewed for a few hours, grabbed a strong coffee, and went to campus with plenty of time to spare. Once I arrived, I stopped studying. At that point, extra cramming only added stress. I preferred to ground myself by listening to music, staying outside as long as possible before the doors opened, and doing stretches and neck rolls to get in the zone. If affirmations help you, say them. I always went in aiming for a clear head.
What are your top 5 favourite things about U of G?
- The friendships. I met some of my closest friends at U of G, and I still see them often today. I am even MC’ing the wedding of a friend I met on a field school in India.
- Field schools. I was fortunate to secure funding that allowed me to participate in programs in Finland, India, and the Netherlands. These experiences were transformative both academically and personally.
- The professors and mentors who went above and beyond to support me.
- The campus. It is beautiful, and the green space made a bigger impact on my well-being than I realized at the time.
- The food. Always the food.
