Nadiya Safonova

Visiting Grand Place in Brussels, Belgium. Summer 2018

How did you hear about EURUS?

I first found out about EURUS while researching masters programs in the national capital region. I knew that I wanted to work for the federal government in some capacity (which one specifically, I did not know at that time). When I read about EURUS, I knew it was the right fit for me in terms of area specialization, interdisciplinary approach, language, and international opportunities.

What are some reasons you chose to do your MA at EURUS?

There were a few reasons why EURUS was my first choice for an MA. Firstly, the area specialization was a big draw for me. My bachelor’s degree allowed for an interdisciplinary education, and I wanted to continue with this approach. Having studied International Relations, Political Science, and European History, EURUS seemed like a perfect fit. Furthermore, there are many opportunities for experience abroad, in the form of the EU study tour, university exchanges, and internships abroad.

What is your main area of focus in your MA?

My main area of focus is memory wars in contemporary Russia. The topic of my major research paper is neo-Stalinism. However, I also have an interest in the EU and its function in international relations, which I have been able to study also.

What do you enjoy about EURUS?

There are a few main reasons why I enjoy EURUS so much. Firstly, the professors are very approachable, encouraging, and helpful. It is a pleasure to work for them, and I feel like I have learned a lot in my first year of EURUS. Secondly, the program has many opportunities for students to gain meaningful work experience. I participated in the internship course, and completed a very rewarding internship at the SecDev Group. I am also taking part in the co-op program, which is allowing me to gain experience working for the federal government. Additionally, I was very lucky to take part in the Jean Monnet Network internship, in Darmstadt, Germany, followed by a research trip to Russia.

What is something valuable the program has helped you with?

Besides helping me grow in my research and writing skills, the program has helped me develop my professional skills. Working as a research assistant at the Centre for European Studies gave me very practical and applicable skills for the workplace. I could then apply these to my internships, and now, co-op positions. EURUS helped me attain work experience that is truly relevant to my interests and studies.

What abroad programs or classes, co-op positions, or internships have you have done since joining EURUS?

In the winter semester of first year, I took part in the internship course offered by EURUS. The course itself taught me practical and valuable skills regarding the job search, resume writing, and interviewing. I completed my internship at the SecDev Group, where I assisted with projects on cyber security, digital economy readiness, and open government assessment.

In the summer after first year, I participated in the Jean Monnet Network internship, at Darmstadt University in Germany. I was thrilled to gain some international work experience, and to conduct research in Russian, and assist on a research project on EU-Russia relations.

Finally, through the co-op program, I secured two co-op positions. The first is at Environment and Climate Change Canada; the second is at the Treasury Board Secretariat. I am very happy to gain government work experience, as well as to gain more knowledge and experience on topics outside of my school research.

Has EURUS helped your career development?

EURUS has certainly helped me with my career development. It has allowed me to gain work experience through the TA/RA positions, through the various internships (including international experience), and through the co-op programs.

Anything else you would like to add?

EURUS was definitely the best decision for me for an MA. It is the perfect balance between enhancing academic skills, and developing professional work skills. The international opportunities are also amazing learning experiences. Additionally, there is a close network of EURUS alumni in Ottawa, and it always eye-opening, interesting, and reassuring to meet alumni at EURUS events, and see how the program alumni have progressed and excelled in their professions, after EURUS.

Moscow, Russia. Summer 2018

St.Petersburg, Summer 2018