Serena Girard

Criminology doctoral student in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field

I am a PhD student in the School of Criminology. I completed my BA in sociology and philosophy, and my MSc in environmental science. I want to make a difference for all living beings, including animals, and my research and teaching always take a non-anthropocentric and compassionate approach.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

I chose to come to SFU as the criminology program has an excellent reputation, and my supervisor, Dr. Alexandra Lysova, shares similar research interests.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

My research has always been rooted in my love for animals. In my bachelor's degree, I studied intimate partner violence and animal abuse, where I interviewed women who had experienced abuse on their perceptions of their companion animals. In my master's degree, I took a different turn. I surveyed consumers to determine their perceptions of plant-based foods (meaning vegan/vegetarian foods) and sustainability (key factors: environment/animals/humans). My current research in my doctorate is focused on the directionality of intimate partner violence (meaning one or more parties are abusing or abusive) and its relation to the types and severities of abuse, as well as to animal abuse. I hope to provide suggestions for restorative justice programs and policies that move beyond labels to offer all parties experiencing abuse opportunities to heal and make things right.

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

Intimate partner violence, animal abuse, non-anthropocentrism

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

I have always aimed to broaden my scope of knowledge by learning about various topics from a multi-disciplinary approach, including criminology, sociology, philosophy, environmental studies, political science, anthropology, and psychology. My first RA position was on intimate partner violence and animal abuse, which is where my interest in my main research area began. Being a TA has helped me understand that remaining open-minded about various topics and positions helps support respectful and educational debates. My academic mentors have provided me with excellent support and opportunities, and I aim to pay this forward to my future students. While I am an academic at heart, my experiences volunteering at an animal shelter, working as a pet sitter, and working with children have helped me understand my research from a more hands-on perspective. I believe that formal education and life experience go hand in hand. My experiences have helped me gain compassion while maintaining healthy boundaries.

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 CGS-M and the Ken Lepin Graduate Student Award, which helped support my master's research. In my second year, I received first place in a master of science research showcase. These awards made my studies possible and motivated me to continue on the challenging yet rewarding path of academia.

What have been the most valuable lessons you've learned along your graduate student journey (or in becoming a graduate student)?

Work-life balance and self-compassion. Remember to be kind to yourself, make time for doing what makes your heart happy, rest, and tell that imposter syndrome to bugger off. You are your own worst critic. You are more than good enough!

How do you approach networking and building connections in and outside of your academic community?

I enjoy connecting with others, whether we share similar interests or have different perspectives, as it allows for learning opportunities. While conversing with new people in both professional and personal spheres might feel intimidating in today's hyper-individualistic and digitalized Western society, we are all relational beings who need connection. Starting by simply saying hi can open doors to opportunities we never expected!

What are some tips for balancing your academic and personal life?

Create a schedule and environment for yourself that allows for time and space dedicated to work, rest, and what brings you joy. Once the clock hits a certain time (say, 5 pm), make sure to eat, go outside, connect with others, do your hobbies, and rest.

If you could dedicate your research to anyone (past, present and/or future), who would that be and why?

I dedicate my research to my cats (current fur baby: my geriatric senior boy, Bugsy) and to any living being who has experienced abuse, including animals used for anthropocentric purposes. I hope my research and teaching can make a difference for people, animals, and my future students.

Contact Serena:serena_girard@sfu.ca

Additional Links

• LinkedIn

More about Research