Rachel Gam, Master of Arts, International Affairs

What drew you to Norman Paterson School of International Affairs?

Before NPSIA, I studied International Relations and Ethics, Society, and Law at the University of Toronto. While I initially chose International Relations as a complement to my pre-law studies, I soon found myself captivated by the field. Growing up, I moved frequently between countries; while these transitions were challenging at the time, they ultimately shaped my worldview and sparked a lifelong interest in how nations interact and how that affects the people within them.

During my undergraduate studies, I began working as a student with the Canada Border Services Agency, which provided my first real glimpse into the federal government and helped me envision it as a viable career path. This interest deepened during a subsequent role at Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada, where I navigated the  intersection of policy and operations.

A later student exchange in Germany solidified my passion for international affairs, and I realized that I wanted to, more than anything, work for Global Affairs Canada. I chose NPSIA because it offered more than just a curriculum; it offered a reputation of excellence and a bridge into the department through an unparalleled network of alumni and faculty.

Top 3 reasons to study at NPSIA:

1. A comprehensive course selection that covers nearly every facet of the international landscape,
2. A talented and kind cohort of peers and professors who always push you to be better,
3. Unparalleled access and connections into the heart of Canada’s foreign affairs community.

What was the highlight of your experience?

The highlight of my experience was undoubtedly landing my role at Global Affairs Canada through the NPSIA co-op program. As someone born and raised in the Toronto area, I had long dreamed of working for GAC but also remaining in Toronto. NPSIA didn’t just make that goal possible; it made it a reality. The past two years I have spent working for the Trade Commissioner Service have been incredibly rewarding.

What was the biggest challenge?

The most demanding aspect of my time at NPSIA was mastering the art of balancing competing priorities. In my first year, I managed a full-time course load alongside my role at IRCC, a research assistantship with Dr. Lama Mourad, and my responsibilities as a teaching assistant. Balancing these commitments—followed by transitioning to part-time studies while working full-time at GAC—was a steep learning curve. However, this experience instilled in me a sense of resilience and adaptability that I use daily.

What skills are you taking into the workplace?

NPSIA provided the toolkit I use daily in my role at GAC. Working within the forestry, wood products, and building materials sectors, I find that my academic background remains deeply relevant. My coursework in Economics of Human Development and Statistics sharpened my critical thinking, while my regional studies provide context for the global markets I help our clients navigate. Beyond the theory, NPSIA taught me how to communicate with diplomatic precision, craft effective briefing notes, and maintain the agility required to handle the fast-paced nature of international trade.

What’s next for you?

The Canadian trade landscape is in a constant state of evolution. I look forward to continuing my work with Canadian exporters, helping them navigate complex regulatory environments and diversify their trade presence on the global stage.