Chris Camaso (she/they) was born and raised in Victoria. She started her undergraduate journey at the University of Ottawa in International Development Studies. After the COVID-19 pandemic, they moved back home and transferred to UVic’s political science program. In total, they took five years to finish their degree.
What moment stands out most from your time here?
My most standout moment from UVic was handing in my very last paper of my degree. It was such a bittersweet moment where I felt overjoyed and proud, but also like “now what?”
Where did you love to study, hang out or unwind on campus?
I loved to study in the Political Science Reading Room in David Turpin! It’s the department’s hidden gem. I also loved getting coffee or matcha from the Boardwalk Café in Mystic Market.
Was there a course or instructor who had an impact on you? Any special memories to share?
The most pivotal experience I had during my undergrad was taking part in POLI/GDS 391, a field school to Northern Thailand. The field school explored themes of resource extraction, ethical tourism and community resilience. I learned so much about topics that I already cared a lot about. My favourite memory in Thailand was riding in a tuk-tuk for the first time!
What activity or experience outside the classroom meant the most to you?
Outside of the classroom, I represented political science students as the president of our course union. In my role as president, I was so lucky to meet so many other curious and engaged political science students, as well as make meaningful connections with the professors in our department.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I will be taking part in the BC Legislative Internship Program. I am so excited to take the knowledge I gained about our political systems into the real world of BC politics. Following that, I’ll be returning to UVic for my MA in Political Science.
How would you describe your time at UVic in one word?
Transformative.
