Max Kallenbach
Max Kallenbach is the first Master’s in Political Science student to graduate with the Dual MA from Carleton University and the University of Lucerne.
What were the key highlights of your program?
This is a tricky question since my answer could fill a book, but I will try to keep it short and focus on two aspects:
First highlight: The PoliSci community. Everyone knows each other on a first-name basis and the faculty is very helpful in supporting students to learn, grow and build a career. A school that believes and invests in you is so important for your success, happiness and experience. I want to say thanks again to everyone for their great support over the past two years.
Second highlight: The interdisciplinarity of the program. Classes at the Department of Political Science are not purely politics classes. There is a massive range of economics, law and geopolitics-related courses, allowing you to expand your horizon and study more than just one subject. The flexibility of adding classes from other departments is another huge plus!
How has your degree helped you prepare for the future?
After completing my first year at Carleton, I moved to the U.S. for half a year to intern with the United Nations. This was a great and challenging experience. Since the start of my studies, I have focused on international affairs. The huge variety of courses at Carleton definitely helped me thrive and succeed at the UN. The UN is all about thinking outside the box, and that needs to be learned. I learned that at Carleton, next to many other things. The university and the program also give you enough room to ‘declare’ a specialty.
What activities were you involved with outside of the classroom?
I sat on the Carleton Career Advisory Board, served as a Student Housing Councillor, helped out at a Rideau River Residence Association campaign and volunteered with the Carleton University Student Association (CUSA). The Carleton community is exceptionally welcoming and there is a place for everyone. I miss the community and just walking around the campus and seeing friends. Going to university means growing and learning outside the classroom too, and Carleton is a great place to do so. I met new friends, learned more about the Canadian culture and thoroughly enjoyed campus life!
What are your plans after graduation?
Right now, I work for the Swiss Embassy in Canada in the Politics and Diplomacy section, where I focus on human rights, bilateral relations and multilateralism. I love working in diplomacy and I hope to build my career in this exciting field. My ultimate dream is to go back to New York and work for the UN again, but let’s see what 2021 has in store for me. If COVID-19 has taught me one thing, it’s not to plan too far ahead.
Friday, June 18, 2021 in 2021 Graduation, Convocation, Department of Political Science, FPA Voices, Students
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