Liz Marchand, Bachelor of Arts, Political Science

Where are you from?

I spent my formative years in Ottawa’s east end! I went to Gloucester High School and played ringette for the Gloucester-Cumberland Ringette Association.

What attracted you to political science?

I was in another program before taking two political science courses — Politics in the World (PSCI 1200) and IR: Global Politics (PSCI 2601) — which made me consider switching degree pathways in my third year. As a curious person, what fascinated me about Political Science was the sheer amount of information, viewpoints, and debate within the field.

What are the top 3 reasons to be a political science student at Carleton?

First, I’d be remiss not to mention the capital advantage. Given the opportunities for employment, political participation, and meeting individuals who influence Canadian domestic and foreign policy, there is nowhere better to study Political Science than Carleton University.

In my time as a Political Science undergraduate at Carleton, I met Germany’s ambassador to Canada, Matthias Lüttenberg, too many politicians to count, and was surrounded by politically minded peers who encouraged me to challenge my thinking and to be active in politics — whether that be on or off campus.

As a former co-chair of the Carleton University New Democrats, I can say with confidence that Carleton’s campus has a robust set of politically active student groups that incoming students ought to be aware of. Moreover, many of my friends in Political Science had jobs as policy analysts, program coordinators, parliamentary interns and senate pages during their undergrad!

Second, I have to mention the department’s amazing faculty and staff. Every professor whom I’ve interacted with in the department is approachable, knowledgeable, and kind. The staff in the Political Science department are incredibly helpful. Figuring out my courses felt intimidating when I transferred to Political Science, but the staff, particularly the department’s program administrator, Sarah Landry, made it easy.

Third, there are intellectually stimulating courses and academic opportunities. The courses and papers I have written have encouraged me to challenge my own thinking. Beyond courses, there are great opportunities to contribute in the field. The Carleton University Journal of Political Science (CUJPS) is launching its first volume soon. I would encourage students to reach out and potentially get published! In the age of AI, it is more important than ever to think critically. Political Science gives you those skills and more.

What was your favourite course?

There are so many amazing courses to choose from, but my favourite was the Honours Research Essay (PSCI 4809). The HRE is a great opportunity for students to research an area of interest, work with a faculty member, and to learn about their style as a researcher. My HRE was entitled: “Time to Breakup? Issue Linkage and the Health of Canada-U.S. Relations”. My research found that issue linkage — defined as efforts to break an impasse or otherwise improve one’s own bargaining position on a particular issue by tying it to another, unrelated issue — was uncommon in the Canada-U.S. relationship pre-Trump. However, that issue linkage garners Canadian concessions when they are credible, limited, and when an easy policy off-ramp is provided. From start to finish, the experience was very fulfilling. Shoutout to Dr. Aaron Ettinger for being a fantastic supervisor!

What was the most challenging part of being a university student?

Time management. During my undergrad, I always had a job or other responsibilities outside of the classroom. Learning how best to juggle my responsibilities and academics without neglecting myself, my partner, friends and family is something I’m still figuring out.

Favourite things to do outside of class.

Lately, I’ve been getting into running and the gym. The endorphins from physical activity have been fantastic for my mental health. I’m also an avid non-fiction reader. I always have a book on me, just in case there is time to get a few pages in.

Favourite hangout spot on campus.

The political science undergraduate lounge! It’s a great space to get some work done and to spend time with fellow Political Science students.

What is your favourite memory?

It’s hard to give a specific answer. I’ll always cherish the mundane moments on campus, writing papers, and casual drinks with friends I made at Carleton.

What advice would you give your first-year self?

Don’t let your mistakes define you. In my first year, I struggled with academics and I let failure define my whole personhood. There is always the opportunity to find success doing something you don’t expect. Use the resources Carleton provides you, visit your professors during their office hours, and, most importantly, as my Mom always told me growing up playing Ringette, “work hard, try your best, and have fun!”.

What’s next for you?

This summer, I’ll be working at the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB). I’ll be right back at Carleton in September to start my MA in Political Science.