Claire Davies

Public Policy master's student in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

I hold a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from Queen’s University, with a major in Global Development Studies and a minor in French Studies, and I am completing my final year of a Master of Public Policy at SFU. My interests lie within environmental policy and food policy. I have worked for the United Nations Development Programme, the Canadian federal government and as a farmer. I understand that finding solutions to the challenges of economic and sustainable development in the context of a changing climate is a project that will take generations, but I endeavor to do my part in that work.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO SFU?

My decision to pursue a master’s at SFU was informed primarily by the practical courses offered by the School of Public Policy and the opportunities provided to students to apply their knowledge and skills gained in the program in the real world. Two critical components of the program include a co-op placement and a BC Priorities Project, where students can tackle policy problems in real-time.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR RESEARCH OR YOUR PROGRAM TO A FAMILY MEMBER?

I am exploring the ways that cover crop adoption occurs in agricultural regions in British Columbia (BC). Specifically, my research focuses on understanding how BC farmers navigate and overcome field-level management issues and structural barriers associated with the use of cover crops. Such research is needed to understand what policy levers and tools might help encourage wider adoption of this Nature-based Solution.

WHAT ARE YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOYING ABOUT YOUR STUDIES/RESEARCH AT SFU?

The School of Public Policy offers extremely practical courses, which have allowed me to enhance my critical thinking, policy analysis and research skills. I also appreciate how focused the program is on understanding why certain conditions exist today.

HAVE YOU BEEN THE RECIPIENT OF ANY MAJOR OR DONOR-FUNDED AWARDS? IF SO, PLEASE TELL US WHICH ONES AND A LITTLE ABOUT HOW THE AWARDS HAVE IMPACTED YOUR STUDIES AND/OR RESEARCH.

I am extremely grateful and honoured to have received the Andrew Petter Graduate Scholarship in Public Policy. This generous award has supported the financing of my master’s degree and motivates me to continue my passions in the realm of environmental policy.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PROGRAM/POSTDOC POSITION TO SOMEONE STILL SEARCHING FOR A PROGRAM OR POSTDOC POSITION?

This program provides a blend of theoretical and practical knowledge that will help me throughout my career. I appreciate that the topics we cover in classes are relevant and current.

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE?

I am grateful for the connections and friendships I have made throughout this program, especially during a pandemic.

Contact : claire_davies@sfu.ca

ADDITIONAL LINKS 

• LinkedIn