Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at the University of Waterloo?
The University of Waterloo is my alma mater. Before commencing my M.A. in Intercultural German Studies in 2019, I studied Biology at the University of Waterloo (Hons BSc, 1991). During that time, I had the opportunity to maintain my interest in the German language by taking elective courses at the Germanic and Slavic Studies department and through an exchange program with the Technische Universität Braunschweig.
Why did you choose the University of Waterloo?
I started my bachelor’s degree as a mature student on a part-time basis and the University of Waterloo did offer science courses through distance education. Later, continuing as a full-time student, the broad range of programs and courses offered at the university was also a deciding factor in my choice.
Why did you choose this program?
I’ve had the opportunity to get to know the German Department by taking German courses as my electives during my bachelor studies, but my interest in pursuing a MA in German came years later, as an even more mature student, when I had once more the opportunity to return to university. The IcGS program was especially attractive as it offered a full year at a German university and the chance to have a lived experience in German culture.
Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?
Having lived in a borderland where several languages were spoken, Slavic and German, I am interested in multilingualism, how and why speakers negotiate between different language choices and expressions. How do these choices reflect identity in the borderlands where language and practices of language intersect?
As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I thought, I’ll be taking over my grandparents’ farm.
What is a fun fact about you?
I had my own market stall when I was ten years old.