Convocation Profile: Sharon Lam

Sharon Lam is majoring in Labour Studies and minoring in Global Asia Studies, and will be graduating from SFU this week. During her time at SFU, Sharon was involved in a number of extracurriculars, as an executive for the Labour Studies Student Union and as a member of the SFU tennis team. She is passionate about history and culture, and learning about the world around her.

How did you decide to pursue a degree in Labour Studies? 

I had originally intended on doing a LBST minor, but the more LBST classes I took, the more passionate I became about the labour movement. It's something everyone can benefit from. I also love that labour studies is at the intersection of history, sociology, economics, and politics.

What was your favourite Labour Studies course?

My favourite class is either LBST 330: Material Work in a Digital Age – where we studied the history of the craft labour movement from the pre-industrial era to current day's Etsy platform, or LBST 306: The Political Economy of Labour Markets, which is about critical and radical approaches to labour because its themes are so applicable to current social issues in North America.

What are your plans after graduation?

I'm currently working in the financial services industry where I have the opportunity to promote financial literacy. I think financial literacy is an important cultural capital that can help bridge the gap between working class and privileged kids. I also run a social media account that makes educational content about Asian diasporic history and culture.

What advice would you give to current or future students?

Don't be afraid to venture out of your comfort zone because that's where you'll learn the most about yourself! And always stay on top of your readings.