Bachelor of Public Administration (BPA) Honours with a minor in French Studies

I have always enjoyed learning with an interdisciplinary approach, and excelled in studying a variety of disciplines. I wanted to continue in this path during my undergrad. In first year, I was unsure about what to study. In fact, I only knew that I wanted to continue learning French to become perfectly bilingual. Through talking with a friend I met in high school who was a PPASA executive, I discovered the BPA program. I eventually enrolled in the BPA program with French Studies as a minor.
My favourite courses thus far are: Professional Skills and Communication with Professor Constantinou and PPAS 3190 with Professor Caroline Dufour. In the former, Professor Constantinou shares his wisdom on life, the public service and professional development in his intriguing lectures on professional skills and human interactions. In 3190, Professor Dufour not only presents the dynamics of the policy process and public administration, she also engages us in tutorial discussions, and frequently shows us primary-source documents and videos. Her teaching style has helped me develop my research and writing skills.

Outside of the academic sphere, I have started to get involved in the social life of the BPA program through attending events hosted by SPPA and PPASA. The events have helped me build my confidence, network with fellow students and alumni, and take a break from studying. I recommend the BPA courses to all students, and would recommend to any student to join the SPPA community. Through developing myself on an intellectual level in class, and participating in events and extra-curricular activities, I am confident that I am one step closer to becoming a bilingual professional in the public sector. Mes meilleurs voeux à tout le monde (Best wishes to everyone)! – Khadeja Elsibai