Congratulations to Mohamed Hage!

The Christian Hillman Prize is offered annually to a continuing undergraduate student entering the third or fourth year in the Faculty of Arts, majoring in Political Science who has completed at least three half-courses in Political Science over the last two consecutive terms. This Prize is made possible by the Family and friends of Christian Marie Hillman.

 

Can you tell us a little about yourself — where are you in your program and how did you come to study Political Science?

When I first decided to study Political Science, it was one among many choices, each of which I was uncertain about. Social Studies was never my highest mark in high school, but it always interested me. And, given that I have always been passionate about politics, the choice seemed to make sense (even if I was not fully committed). I can confidently say now however, in the fourth and final year of my degree, that I made the right choice, and I am now enjoying my studies more than ever.

What have your favourite courses or areas of study been so far?

I can think of three specific classes which have greatly influenced me thus far. POLI 279 Politics of the Global South with Prof. Mark Baron introduced me to a variety of major theories and perspectives which I had never heard of, and greatly expanded my horizons. POLI 409 Foundations of Modernity with Dr. Joshua Goldstein really cemented my love for philosophy and political theory—fields which I previously had little experience with. And POLI 415 Politics Through Film with Dr. Pablo Policzer involved approaching the everyday medium of film through a very insightful political framework. Each of these classes was extremely different, but they shared a focus on thought-provoking topics which enriched my overall understanding of Political Science.

What are you planning next?

I spent the summer studying for the LSAT, which I wrote last August 2021, and my plan is to begin law school here at UCalgary starting Fall 2022. This was similarly something which I was initially unsure about, but my time in Political Science has really changed that, and I am really looking forward to taking advantage of what I’ve learned so far and applying it to a new field!

Congratulations to Mohamed Hage on your 2020–21 Christian Hillman Prize!

To find out more about our paper prizes and past prize winners by visiting the Political Science website.