We asked Mekarim Elmekki, one of our newest graduates of the PAPM program to tell us more about her experience in the program and her plans for the future. Mekarim will graduate with Honours on November 14, 2020 with a Bachelor of Public Affairs and Policy Management with a Specialization in Development Policy and Global Economic Relations.
What led you to choose a degree in BPAPM?
Ever since I was young, spending my life in both Ottawa and Khartoum, Sudan, I learned very quickly that I had a passion for politics and community development. However, I knew I wanted a deeper and more targeted understanding of the impact governments can make while choosing what I wanted to study for my undergrad. Most importantly, I wanted to know what tangible processes needed to be undertaken to truly implement policy. That’s when I came across PAPM and the influence that public policy can have on our society. My goal was to not only understand how policy systems operate in western nations, but to also be able to apply the concepts I have learned to developing nations in the global south with differing political, social, and economic systems. With PAPM’s curriculum, the energetic and diverse students, as well as the outstanding professors I was lucky enough to meet, I feel as though I was able to achieve just that.
What were the highlights of your experience?
The sense of community amongst PAPM students was most definitely the biggest highlight of my entire undergrad experience. Although deadlines approach quickly and workloads pile up, it’s almost impossible to feel alone. Students in all years are always happy to help when needed, and are very forthcoming when it comes to advice and tips on how to conquer your undergrad experience as a PAPM student. Also, PAPM professors are always memorable!
What did you learn that you found most important?
Don’t be afraid to knock on your professor or TA’s door to ask for help, chat about a concept you can’t seem to wrap your head around, or visit the PAPM office whenever you feel like you need guidance in your courses or steps forward during your university career. Utilizing the services that Carleton University offers was key for me being able to gain the full university experience while also succeeding and keeping on top of my courses. Also, Kingdon’s Multiple Streams Approach came in handy for almost every course I have taken.
What advice would you give to students who are thinking about joining the BPAPM program?
It’s absolutely worth a try, and you’re in for a very fulfilling experience. If you enjoy politics, critical thinking, and challenging current and past systems while being provided with resources to build your own political views and policy implementation skills, then PAPM is for you. Not only this, but PAPM opens doors for you to find your passion along the way, whether it be economic development, food and agricultural policy, or security and intelligence. You definitely don’t have to enter knowing everything about your interests to feel fulfilled in the courses you take and the people you meet. Allow PAPM to guide you to where you want to be!
What’s next for you?
I am currently working at Agriculture and Agri-food Canada before embarking in a Masters degree in Public Policy and Public Administration. My dream is to work in the agriculture and food policy field with a particular interest in food insecurity mitigation policies. Hopefully after my masters, I am able to put the policy analysis skills PAPM has taught me to work.