In this Student Association Spotlight, we are taking a look at the Political Science Student Association (PSSA). The PSSA is all about bringing together political science students, whether they're majoring, minoring, or pursuing honours. Their goal? To create a sense of community within one of the largest departments in the Faculty of Arts through various events and activities.
The Department of Political Science covers a wide range of topics, including Political Theory, International Relations, and Canadian Politics and it's basically a hub for anyone interested in understanding how politics works.
To get a better idea of what the PSSA does for students, I had a chat with Danicka Gagne, who's in charge of communications for the association.
Q: What has been your favourite political science course at Â鶹AV?
A: My favourite course by far has been POLI 369: Politics of Southeast Asia. An utterly fascinating course, packed with knowledge and exceptionally taught by Professor Erik Kuhonta. I'd certainly take it again many times over if I could!
Indeed, this course offers an introductory exploration into Southeast Asian politics. Instead of focusing on individual countries, the course adopts a thematic approach. Each theme will delve into specific countries, blending broad thematic analysis with detailed country-specific insights.
During Weeks 2-8, the course provides a comprehensive overview spanning historical and contemporary aspects of the region. Emphasis is placed on understanding patterns of regime change and continuity, with a spotlight on key factors such as colonial legacies, nationalism, democracy, authoritarianism, and human rights. Major countries covered include Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Myanmar/Burma, Vietnam, and Cambodia. These weeks aim to furnish students with a foundational understanding of the region's core political dynamics.
Moving into Week 9 and beyond, the course delves deeper into various issues. Topics such as international relations, ethnic and religious politics, political economy, inequality, and environmental politics take center stage, offering students a nuanced perspective on the multifaceted realities shaping Southeast Asia.
Q: What type of political science do you specialize in or like the most? (Ie International Relations, Political Theory, Comparative Politics)
A: My preference is definitely Comparative Politics, particularly in Developing Areas, although I enjoy International Relations quite a bit as well.
Comparative Politics scholars methodically examine and contrast the diverse governance systems employed worldwide. This field stands out as the most expansive within political science, encompassing a wide array of themes such as democracy, authoritarianism, political conflicts, institutional transformations, identity politics, and the study of political behaviors and public sentiments, among numerous others. At Â鶹AV, Comparative Politics takes the forefront as the largest domain within the political science discipline. Here, a multitude of esteemed faculty members specialize in researching pivotal themes and regions across the globe.
Q: What was an Arts course you didn't expect to take during your degree? Were you glad you took it?
A: In my second year, I took ARTH 215: Introduction to East Asian Art. It was an unanticipated choice, but it turned out to be an intriguing course that I quite enjoyed. Looking back, I'm very glad I explored something quite different from my usual courses.
Q: What are some of your favourite features of the Department?
A: The Political Science Department is a broad community at Â鶹AV made up of so many people from a great diversity of backgrounds. In my role within the PSSA, I have observed a strong connection between undergraduate and graduate students and between students and professors. I think it really goes to show that we are a community that supports one another.
Q: What do you like about being part of the PSSA?
A: In my role as PSSA VP Communications, I have had the privilege of being a critical point of contact with professors, political science students, and other student associations. I love being part of such a hardworking and dedicated team, and I'm especially grateful for how the PSSA has allowed me to connect with so many people in the department.
Q: What are some of the main features or events that the PSSA has thrown?
A: Our best highlights from this year included Wine & Cheese Night, the Ottawa Trip, and the End of Semester Gala with ESA and HSA (History Student Association)!
The PSSA throws amazing collaborative and independent events throughout the year including this year's end of semester gala that featured a prom theme! Ultimately, the PSSA clearly brings the student body together if you are interested in joining an event check out visit their website at
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