Jade Baird

Geography master's student in the Faculty of Environment

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

I completed my BA in Environmental Studies and Creative Writing from the University of Victoria in 2022. I've always felt drawn towards both the arts and the social sciences, but as I became more aware of the climate crisis, I felt compelled to focus my attention on what I could do for the world. My desire to pursue my MA in Geography is motivated by my sense of justice and love for nature, as I wanted my research to address the root drivers of what is harming more-than-human life.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

When I discussed my research interests with professors from my undergraduate, all of them pointed me towards Professor Rosemary Collard. I'm very grateful that she agreed to supervise me, as her wealth of knowledge has helped me understand political ecology and the power relations that shape nature more than I could have hoped for.

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

My research is focused on asking if there is a glass ceiling to state-led environmental action, with a focus on the critically endangered southern resident killer whales. I'm interested in how we can have so many conservation laws and policies dedicated to saving a data-rich species, and yet that species continues to decline.

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

Political ecology, extinction, justice

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

Trying to juggle TA-ships, course work, and all the other graduate school responsibilities has certainly taught me how to multi-task! There's nothing like trying to finish your thesis proposal and mark 250 assignments at the same time.

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

Take time for yourself as much as you can. At the end of the day, your mental and physical well-being is much more important than your thesis.

Contact Jade:jade_baird@sfu.ca