Sophie Owtscharenko

Joint MA in Intercultural German Studies
an image of Sophie, IcGS grad student

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at the University of Waterloo?

Before the IcGS program, I did my bachelor’s degree in German Language, Literature and Media at the University of Mannheim.

What are your interests in German Studies?

I have always been most passionate about literature. Specifically, literature from the 1800s - no matter if German or English literature. During my studies, I have focused on different cultural studies, such as postcolonialism or gender studies.

Why did you choose the University of Waterloo?

I didn't deliberately opt for Waterloo. I selected the IcGS program offered by UWaterloo and the University of Mannheim. Since taking part in an Erasmus program during my bachelor's, I wanted to do my masters abroad and the IcGS program gives me the perfect opportunity for that.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

Right now I feel like I still have so much time left till I have to decide on a topic, so I am not sure yet. I think I want to do something with the concept of identity and what role literature and media play in shaping identity.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I have always wanted to be a writer. I used to scribble in notebooks and makeup stories even before I could read or write.

What is a fun fact about you?

Canada will be the 4th country I will have lived in, and I am very much looking forward to it.