Finding Purpose: How PACS transformed B.B. Adewusi’s Academic Path
B.B. Adewusi initially accepted her offer in the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Waterloo, however, her journey would lead her through three different faculties, ultimately deciding to pursue an arts degree with a major in Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS). Her decision was driven by the practical benefits of the PACS program and its significance in making a positive impact on students and the world. Finding a program that was meaningful and intellectually stimulating was important to her. She felt that the other faculties could not provide the unique opportunities and perspectives that PACS offered.
The PACS program was more practical and humanitarian focused and allowed B.B. to see the real impacts on her life, equipping her with realistic knowledge and experience, to prepare her for creating a positive difference in the world. B.B. explains that “If we don’t actively strive to improve the lives of people every day who are going to conflict or war-torn areas, or the relationship you have with your family and friends, no one’s lives are going to get better.” She understands the tangible impact of peacebuilding and the importance of striving to transform areas impacted by conflict to create meaningful change.
As a student in the PACS program, B.B. has taken numerous courses that have profoundly shaped her perspective on peace and conflict. One course in particular, PACS 202: Conflict Resolution taught her the importance of giving a proper apology and how to approach conflict in a peaceful and constructive way, skills she can use both personally and professionally.
B.B. developed valuable skills through various PACS courses and was interested in applying her knowledge to research the effects of video game usage on the lives of refugees and veterans. Her passion for video games and making a positive impact on the world were strong motivators in her research in PACS 401: Senior Research Seminar. She was inspired to explore potential therapeutic benefits and determine if video games could be a sustainable way to positively impact those who are often underrepresented and face significant trauma.
She discovered that integrating video games with traditional therapy programs can significantly benefit refugees and veterans. This innovative trauma healing approach not only enhances therapeutic outcomes but also fosters a sense of community, bringing people closer together. Despite the associated costs, B.B highlights that the benefits of video game programming for trauma healing significantly outweigh the expenses.
Looking to the future, B.B. hopes that her research will inspire future studies on the benefits of video games for refugees and veterans. She envisions a world where these therapeutic tools are widely recognized and utilized to support those in need. Her goal is to see her research pave the way for innovative approaches that integrate video games into therapy, providing joy and relief to traumatized people. Knowing that these groups could benefit from her research inspired her to continue her journey in peace building work.
Reflecting on her journey at the University, B.B. transitioned between three faculties before settling into the Faculty of Arts because of the PACS program. Knowing what she knows now, she believes people often underestimate the importance of an arts education and its potential to transform lives. She encourages new students to enter the program with an open mind and a readiness to learn. “I would tell future students to just choose PACS, it’s a very diverse program and there are so many relevant courses that have improved how I communicate with others and view the world,” she explained. The PACS program is more than just classes; it is a community of passionate, like-minded individuals dedicated to learning, growing, and making the world a better place.
By Brooke Driscoll