Now working for a civil society organization, Project Ploughshares, Gallagher credits the program for helping him develop the professional and academic skillsets needed for a career in research and advocacy. As he puts it, the program “was critical for generating the skill of research: how to find and gather actionable data to better deal with conflict issues.”
A major source of learning was an internship placement Kelsey completed with an advocacy organization based in London, England. “The internship experience,” he says, “was good for both my personal and professional growth.” And part of what made it possible was the flexibility and support provided by faculty and staff. Additionally, he notes, “The internship undoubtedly gave me a leg up in looking for work after my degree.”
During his studies, Kelsey made connections with practitioners working in the field that he was interested in, often consulting with staff at Project Ploughshares (whose offices are located at Grebel in the Centre for Peace Advancement). After graduating, the organization hired him as a researcher: “I track Canadian military exports to make sure Canadian arms are sent abroad in compliance with Canadian and international law.”
Reflecting back on the program, Gallagher notes, “MPACS really did make you think about peace holistically. It gave you a space to explore that foundational aspect.”