How did you decide to pursue a degree in SA? What interested you most about it?
I have always been interested in people, culture and everything in between. From what causes certain groups to think in a unique way or hold particular values, to what shapes culture by dissecting subcultural phenomena; Sociology has always spoken to me on a deep level. Also given its wide interdisciplinary nature that is present wherever you look, Sociology covers so much ground (though it often does not get enough recognition) and offers a well-rounded and holistic outlook on all the things that pique my interest. Shout out to Mr. B. Solmes, my Sociology 11 teacher who set on me on a path of transgression and wonder.

What was your favourite SA course? Why?
My favourite SA course during my time at SFU is toss-up between SA 250: Intro Sociological Theory and SA 366: Spaces of Memory. Both of which were taught by Professor Lindsey Freeman, Professor Freeman made classical theory lectures engaging, personable, culturally relevant and fun despite the remote zoom sessions. The same goes for SA 366: Spaces of Memory. This Special Topics course combined the principles of classical theory with the nuanced and unexpectedly-but-intrinsically-sociological phenomenon of memory and storytelling. Myself being an avid collector of music memorabilia, the practice of archiving, storytelling and the dissecting of historical significance through a sociological lens is a cocktail seemingly tailored just for me. 

What’s something you’re proud of accomplishing during your time at SFU?
One accomplishment I'm proud of during my time at SFU is my role as a Communications Coordinator at SASU (Sociology and Anthropology Student Union). During my time at SASU, I co-orchestrated "Harm Reduction with SASU," a Naloxone certification training and harm reduction info seminar that garnered the international online attendance of around 50 attendees. This was during the peak of the pandemic and remote learning when events and classes could not yet be held in person. By using the remote nature to our advantage, I promoted "Harm Reduction with SASU" on platforms such as LinkedIn and Facebook. This attracted much greater attention than we expected as numerous professors and medical professionals from all across Canada and the United States attended our seminar. From what was assumed to be a small info session for an expected 10 or so attendees (half of which being SASU members ourselves) unexpectedly drew not only the attention of SFU students, but also numerous international professionals. 

What are your plans post graduation?
My ultimate end goal is to complete a Master of Counselling and become a Registered Counsellor working in private practice. But until then, I plan on working in community outreach, youth mentorship and mental health support. Right now, I want to focus on continuing to play shows and write music with my band Grade School, which will be going on tour this summer! (Check us out on Spotify and in the "Local - G" section at your local independent record store! @gradeschool23)