GRADtalks: The Role of the University in the Modern World

On Thursday September 26, Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs (GSPA) hosted another successful GRADtalks event in the Board and Senate room of Needles Hall. For this GRADtalks, presenters Brittany Etmanski and Christin Taylor examined how universities play a role in the modern world and how it changes our perceptions of modern life. Jeff Casello, associate vice-president of GSPA kicked off the evening with a welcoming introduction, followed by some words from James Rush, the vice-president academic and provost of the University of Waterloo. James joked about his own thesis and graduate experiences, making the audience laugh and setting a comfortable and lively atmosphere for the rest of the evening. Feridun Hamdullahphur, the president and vice-chancellor of the University of Waterloo also joined us for the night as a member of the audience.

The first to present was Christin Taylor, who is an English Language and Literature PhD Candidate. Her research highlights the neoliberal shift towards the internationalization of the University, as well as the impact of that shift on the administration and creation of first-year writing courses.

Next to present was Brittany Etmanski, who is a Sociology and Legal studies PhD candidate. In her research, she explores the employment pathways of social science Phds within and outside of academia.

The presentations closed with a question and answer period. After that, guests were able to socialize while filling themselves with cheese and wine.

GRADtalks lets us appreciate different angles of research while recognizing the excellent work of graduate student across the University of Waterloo. Cheers to another successful GRADtalks!

The next GRADtalks is scheduled to take place on Thursday November 28, 2019 and the focus will be on The Future of Healing.  Mark you calendars, and plan to join us!