Why Canada? It might not be the obvious choice for someone from Mexico who started their university career in the Netherlands. But according to Alex, “Canadian institutions are pioneering new approaches and methodologies in the environmental humanities. The application process was challenging, but thanks to my VU lecturers’ support and recommendations, I was accepted at the University of Alberta for a Master’s and subsequently for my PhD where I’m studying representations of extinct animals in narrative media.”

Thinking critically and questioning assumptions

Alex chose the VU’s English Literature and Society programme for its interplay between narratives and the cultures that produce them. “The lecturers encouraged me to broaden my understanding of what reading is, taught me a wide range of theoretical frameworks through which to think critically about narratives and poetics, and emboldened me to question assumptions about canonicity and epistemology,” explains Alex. 

“I learned several practical skills too, the most important being argumentative reasoning, research and writing. The three go together. Being able to devise arguments is a crucial skill in today’s climate – one in which fundamental concepts like reality and truth are contested. Similarly, learning how to research and filter out resources has been hugely important due to the endless amount of (mis)information out there. Lastly, in a world where interpersonal communication is increasingly mediated, writing clearly and concisely is a skill that most employers value.”   

Alex highly rates the interdisciplinary nature of the VU’s programme, addressing some of the gaps between the natural sciences, social sciences and humanities. Plus, he recommends studying abroad and attending guest lectures. “Both are great ways to kickstart your network. But there are other benefits too: experiencing another culture is essential to understanding your place in the world, but also the points of views of people beyond your immediate circle. Meanwhile, guest lectures often touch on specific programs, methods or research that could end up influencing your career path.”

Social and professional responsibility

But Alex’s career hasn’t all been about his degrees. In 2019, he worked as a research assistant for SpokenWeb Canada: an interinstitutional partnership dedicated to the discovery and digitisation of historical literary recordings, where he got involved in activities like close listening and drafting podcasts. And in 2021, he’ll be working as an intern at the University of Alberta Press. 

He explains: “Working on my degree while simultaneously contributing to this educational institution is a singular experience. It still feels a little unreal at times. I think there’s a certain amount of social and professional responsibility that comes with this work that I had not considered, which I find thrilling if a little overwhelming. Thankfully, my colleagues are all incredibly supportive.”