Member benefits from SEG funding

Staff Enhancement Grant helps upgrade degree

by Lisa Brackenridge

I recently completed the online course, Cultural Studies – Cartoons and Comics (KS 205) through Wilfrid Laurier University. Since I completed my undergraduate degree in Communication Studies several years ago, the program has changed and now offers an honours program. I registered for this course out of interest and to work toward upgrading my degree to the honours degree. My long-term goal is to apply for graduate school in the coming years to continue my education.

This course was a great way to ease back into academics. I now have a great appreciation for comic books, the comic book collector, culture, and the impact of comic books on our society and vice versa. For my final paper, I analyzed an indigenous comic book charter and the impact of the super hero archetype. This research and analysis aligned with my interest in Indigenization in higher education and learning about the indigenous experience. I especially appreciated the discussion forum aspect of the course.

It is challenging to find time to study while working full time and raising a family (and saying fit and maintaining a house, and caring for aging parents, etc.). But I believe in doing so successfully I have proven to myself that it is possible. I have moved a step closer to my goal, and developed my knowledge and time management skills. Thank you to the Staff Enhancement Grant committee for your support as I work toward achieving my goal.