At first glance, Latin American history might not seem to have much in common with Niagara. But Seedling for Change in History is all about unexpected connections.

The program, created by Department of History Associate Professor Maria Del Carmen Suescun Pozas, offers students ways to connect with history through their own interests, such as art, business or sport, while gaining work experience with community organizations.

Launched by Suescun Pozas with her Latin American history classes in 2016, the course allows students to complete traditional academic course work, or to incorporate community engagement into their learning.

“The experience component complements academic learning, it doesn’t replace it,” says Experiential Education Co-ordinator Koreen McCullough, who works with students in the program.

“It makes learning deeper and more meaningful.”

Suescun Pozas meets with students to discuss their passions and how those interests can serve as an entry point to studying Latin American history. She helps students develop research projects in collaboration with Niagara residents and organizations that explore the surprising shared cultural history and heritage. The program is interdisciplinary in nature and open to all Brock students.

“Students take the lead,” says Suescun Pozas. “It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure course.”

At the end of the term, students showcase their experience through poster presentations, community appreciation events and various creative practices. They also receive academic, Experience Plus and International Plus credits, and they can also use work hours to fulfill volunteer requirements in programs such as Sport Management.

“The program creates value for students and the community by making connections,” says Suescun-Pozas.

Recently, Suescun-Pozas and Associate Professor Elizabeth Vlossak partnered with the Niagara Military Museum in Niagara Falls to create The History Lab Initiative, which held its first event Feb. 1 to honour International Holocaust Remembrance Day.