The IR Program would like to congratulate all those students who graduated from the IR Major in 2020. We want to honour the knowledge and insight these students have to share even though they are not able to do it in person, so will be featuring many of them in a series of interviews here online. Go forth, grads, we are proud of you!
Name: Sara Sanabria
Started at UBC in: 2016 (Dual BA with Sciencespo)
Why did you choose to study IR?
Having been born in Colombia and growing up in Canada, I have always seen the world through a dual lens. IR was an opportunity to hone my ability to see the world in different perspectives and to understand how countries interact with each other.
What was one significant learning moment that happened during your degree?
I attended a lecture by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and was incredibly inspired by her comments on intersectional feminism.
What is one thing that you did/were involved in that you think future IR students should consider?
I was involved with the Journal of Political Studies as an editor and then as Managing Editor, and I found it to be an incredible academic experience. I would highly recommend future IR students to get involved with an undergraduate journal as it is a great opportunity to interact with students while engaging in stimulating conversations around important world issues.
Most memorable or favourite IR class? And why?
POLI 460C hands down. Professor Butterfield led a great seminar involving role-playing members of the national security council. It was an incredibly fun and interactive way to really dig deep into complex security issues.
Any advice for future IR Majors?
Stay on top of your readings, listen to your classmates from the Global South when they discuss non-Northern IR experiences/histories and get involved with the IR community.