Q: What motivated you to pursue your program, and what specific areas are you focusing on? How does your current work/career fit into this?
A: I’m majoring in International Development with a Politics and Conflict in Development area of emphasis. I’ve been passionate about politics for a while now and curious about International Law specifically, so my program was perfect for me. A huge plus is also how flexible it is, depending on what area of emphasis you choose.
I currently hold a position as an Indigenization, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (IEDI) Student Researcher with the CSAHS Dean’s Office. Specifically, I am looking at the implementation of a Pathway program for racialized students who are underrepresented in post-secondary education. This position greatly complements my studies by grounding me on the practical aspects of research and policymaking, which is important for me as I tend to get carried away with the theoretical and abstract. Plus, it is a very concrete step towards the achievement of inclusive excellence in this community.
Q: Throughout your time in the program, have you encountered any insights or revelations about industry practices or challenges that have influenced your perspective?
A: It is always exciting for me to study the cultural and historical contexts behind social and political movements. Doing so has made it a lot easier for me to continuously question the things I take for granted about the way things are now and, I would like to think, helped me become a more open-minded person altogether.
Q: Reflecting on your journey so far, what accomplishments within your studies and career are you most proud of, and why?
A: I am just getting started on my professional journey, but the past fall semester I had the opportunity to participate in the World Association for Co-operative and Work-Integrated Education (WACE) Global Challenge. I got to act as an industry consultant for an Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) and had a lot of fun; I got to sharpen some of the skills that I am using in my research position now while learning about a special organization and about my own working style. Finishing that was really rewarding.
Q: What personally motivated you to pursue a career in the industry, and how do you envision yourself making a difference in this field in the future?
A: I generally enjoy researching a lot, especially interpreting data. It’s very exciting that this role is giving me the opportunity to make a positive change in the University and preparing me to do so in other communities. I hope to come away from this position as a more vocal and capable advocate for the changes I want to see.
Q: Is there a hobby, interest, or unique aspect of your personality that you find brings balance to your academic pursuits? If so, could you share a bit about it?
A: I love art! In my free time I like reading and drawing, and I’m slowly getting into collaging as well. These hobbies are great to get away from the drearier topics that can sometimes be part of my studies, especially if I am keeping up with the news. Right now, I am about to finish the novel Lila by Robert M. Pirsig, which I’ve kind of been slogging through, but it’s been a lot of fun!
Thanks for chatting with us Sofia, we can't wait to see you shine in your role with the CSAHS Dean's Office and beyond!