Timothy van den Brink

Political Science doctoral student in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

I received my BA and MA at the University of Alberta, Campus Saint-Jean, under the supervision of Dr. Frédéric Boily. To date, my research has focused on right-wing Canadian/Albertan politics.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO SFU?

I came to SFU partially because of personal connections to the city, partially because I felt the faculty was a good fit. SFU first appeared on my radar because Dr. David Laycock’s work was pivotal for my thesis wherein I discussed Alberta Premier Jason Kenney and labels of populism. Then, as I was searching for a supervisor for my PhD, Dr. Léger really stood out. We had mutual research connections, and they enthusiastically encouraged me to contact him. To date it has been an excellent fit.

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

My work continues to study the ideologies of Canadian actors and intellectuals. However, I have shifted to a focus on language policy. I feel that language policy in Canada is a near limitless vehicle for political actors to advance their visions of the Canadian identity and nation.

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

The faculty has been kind and accommodating. I would like to thank Dr. Léger especially for his support and mentorship.

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 have received the SSHRC Doctoral Fellowship, BC Graduate Scholarship, and Dean's Graduate Fellowship. With these awards I have been able to dedicate a greater focus to my research and classes

Contact : tsv1@sfu.ca