Nov. 3, 2021
Let’s Meet a UCalgary Political Science Undergrad: Emelia Connolly!
On going from HS Student Council president to what altered her perspective!
Emelia Connolly is a 3rd year student in the Department of Political Science. We talk about going from high school Student Representative Council president, to what completely altered her perspective of the international order, … and wanting to make a real difference in the lives of others!
If we asked when you were in High School what you planned to study at University what would you have told us?
In high school, I was really into politics (still am) and how political institutions, interactions and actors play a role in almost all aspects of life. I think I would have said political science or some pre-law major because I love the law especially civil rights and environmental law! I was actually the president of our Student Representative Council in high school and readily participated in leadership conferences in Saskatchewan which also made me more inclined to pursue a degree stream where I could learn more about government and politics!
What’s come to be your favourite areas of Political Science?
When reflecting on my favourite areas of political science I really struggle because so much of what I learn in this program is immensely enriching. If I had to choose it would be what I learned in the following courses: Government and Politics of Africa and Politics of Development that I took in my second year and it completely altered my perspective of the international order. Some of my favourite things that I learned was the destructive nature of neoliberalism, developmental economics, and gender and development in Africa. To this day, these courses impact what I write about and how I see the systems and structures in todays’ society!
Where do you hope your degree might take you?
I hope my degree takes me to law school either Western University or Queens University is the goal. I hope that with both a political science degree and a law degree, I can influence policy and make a difference in terms of peoples’ economic and socio-political status. A goal that I have always had, is changing the legal system in a way which recognizes the intersectional qualities of people of colour as well as historical institutions that have legitimized oppression and inequality.
Finally, any advice for students who are considering Political Science?
My advice for students who are considering entering political science, is that it is a pretty tough degree stream so listening to constructive criticisms from your professors is crucial for success. Also take advantage of writing resources! This program will make you learn things and begin to examine the world and its institutions in a critical lens—so if you are up for a challenge, it is 100% worth it!