The Centre for Women’s and Gender Studies is proud to showcase current students and alumni. Read the interviews below to learn more about some of the students who have majored or minored in the program, their unique experiences, accomplishments, and the advice they have for new students.

Brooke Ash
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Women’s and Gender Studies (2026)
“The Women’s and Gender Studies program is a critical and welcoming program that examines a diverse array of social issues, intersecting within one another. This program prepares its students to become critical beings in their future that can recognize these intersections and create safer spaces for their communities.
The advice I would give to those wishing to pursue a degree in Women’s and Gender Studies is to keep an open mind to all topics discussed. Some conversations are raw and real and at times uncomfortable, but the new knowledge and understandings you can take from them are life changing.”
What brought you to the Centre for Women’s and Gender Studies at Brock?
While looking through the programs at Brock, I found myself stuck in deciding which degree best suited my needs and future goals. Before finding Women’s and Gender Studies, I did not have a clue that a program as such could exist. Once I discovered it, I knew instantly that it was the program I belonged in. As a young kid, I have always held a strong sense of social justice and had the goals of transforming the world in some way. The Centre for Women’s and Gender Studies offers me that opportunity by providing me a wide range of outlooks on society and the social changes that need to happen.
In a few words, how would you describe the program?
The Women’s and Gender Studies program is a critical and welcoming program that examines a diverse array of social issues, intersecting within one another. This program prepares its students to become critical beings in their future that can recognize these intersections and create safer spaces for their communities.
What has been your favourite course so far?
My favourite course that I have taken so far is WGST 2P93: Beauty, Bodies, and Cultures.
What has been one of your best or most memorable experiences in the program?
My best memories in this course have been made in the seminar discussions I take part in. These seminars are not just a space to discuss course contents and questions, but as well to build a community of common and varying interests.
What advice would you give to other students, or to someone interested in getting a degree in Women’s and Gender Studies?
The advice I would give to those wishing to pursue a degree in Women’s and Gender Studies is to keep an open mind to all topics discussed. Some conversations are raw and real and at times uncomfortable, but the new knowledge and understandings you can take from them are life changing.
What future opportunities are you excited about?
I am looking forward to the multiple courses I get to take as I move towards finishing my degree, as well as using what I have learned to move up in my career goal as a school counsellor.
Sammie Duggan
Bachelor of Arts in Women’s and Gender Studies (2026)
“For me, it’s the people. Getting to talk to people from all walks of life and intersections have been the most eye opening. It showed me that you really can’t judge a book by its cover, that everyone has their own unique challenges and strengths. Everyone in my program that I’ve met has been well articulated and fascinating to listen to. It’s this humanness of joined discussion and conversation with people that really makes this program memorable. It also helps that I’ve made some amazing friends from being in the Women’s and Gender Studies program.”

What brought you to the Centre for Women’s and Gender Studies at Brock?
I was originally interested in Women’s and Gender Studies because it deals with many issues that my peers and I are concerned with, and the study of sociology and adjacent fields has always been interesting to me, even as a little kid. However, when I applied to Brock, I was in a completely different program – throughout my first and second year I was a Medical Science major. However, I found the teaching style and oftentimes rigidness of the program very stifling, and I had to devote all my free time into the program, leaving me with no time to do my hobbies. Women’s and Gender Studies has a far better work life balance that allows me to engage in theory and course work, while maintaining my mental health and outside passions for things other academics. It has also allowed me to see how my program can be applied outside university and has let me digest the material being taught in this program. The program also offers many courses that explore different fields and topics, like WGST 3P95: Sexualities and Health: Critical Perspectives, a course I’m taking this semester which allows me to combine my knowledge from Medical Sciences in with Women’s and Gender Studies.
In a few words, how would you describe the program?
I would argue life changing, and what I mean by this is that you’re opened up to a world of things that you had no idea about. Systems at play in society that you failed to take into consideration, and how the intersections of every aspect of our lives can shape and define us. You really come out of the program with a different perspective on everything.
What has been your favourite course so far?
I am taking WGST 3P68: Gender and Health: Local and Global Issues, and it has been hands down the best course. Dr. Robyn Bourgeois is one of the most amazing people and lecturers that I have had the pleasure of listening to and learning from. Not only that, but the course work itself is fascinating, recently we’ve covered colonial gendercide, and it opened up my view to issues that I did not know much about.
What has been one of your best or most memorable experiences in the program?
For me, it’s the people. Getting to talk to people from all walks of life and intersections have been the most eye opening. It showed me that you really can’t judge a book by its cover, that everyone has their own unique challenges and strengths. Everyone in my program that I’ve met has been well articulated and fascinating to listen to. It’s this humanness of joined discussion and conversation with people that really makes this program memorable. It also helps that I’ve made some amazing friends from being in the Women’s and Gender Studies program.
What advice would you give to other students, or to someone interested in getting a degree in Women’s and Gender Studies?
Just do it. I think there’s this perception that students need to get degrees in STEM and well… I definitely fell for that in my first few years at university, but what I’ve come to realize is that Women’s and Gender Studies is just as encompassing as STEM. The theory and practicum you learn in the program leaks into every facet of life and if you’re truly passionate about humanitarian issues, interested in learning new theories, and examining society as a whole, this program will be a truly worthwhile experience.
Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself?
I like drawing, and consuming different media (film, anime, games, novels, and comics) and taking hikes out in nature. I’m someone who takes frequent naps and talks a lot in seminars, and my roommates are the best, shoutout to them. And on a side note, if you see injustice on campus or in other areas of life, don’t be afraid to speak out and get involved. If there’s ever a time for action, it’s now. And if you’re thinking about pursuing a degree in Women’s and Gender Studies…. seriously…. look into it!!! That’s all 🙂

Sloane Empke
Alumna completing a Master of Arts in Social Justice and Equity Studies
Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) in Women’s and Gender Studies, Minor in English Language and Literature, Micro-certificate in Gender Justice and the Art of Activism (2023)
“The program stood out to me because of the depth of theory and application that was present in each class, as well as the impressive selection of courses related to different facets of Women’s and Gender Studies, such as intimate care labours or Indigenous mothering. The faculty and staff within the program foster a very welcoming and inclusive environment, so I knew I had found my home in Women’s and Gender Studies.”
What would you like people to know about you and where you are now?
I would like to highlight the incredibly well-rounded use of my Women’s and Gender Studies degree. While the program can have a focus on broader topics related to women’s and gender studies, the tools and critical skills I have learned in the program have aided me in pursuing further education and jobs in various fields. I use the material I learned in my degree in both my personal and professional life, and I would say I am definitely proud of the work I have been able to do following my education.
In a few words, how would you describe the program?
I would describe the program as inclusive, transformative, interdisciplinary and empowering!
What made Women’s and Gender Studies stand out for you as a program?
I had taken a Women’s and Gender Studies class as an elective, because I started my degree at Brock in the Concurrent Education program. I was invested in inclusivity in the classroom and education, but after taking one Women’s and Gender Studies class, I realized my passions were within anti-oppressive and social justice work. The program stood out to me because of the depth of theory and application that was present in each class, as well as the impressive selection of courses related to different facets of Women’s and Gender Studies, such as intimate care labours or Indigenous mothering. The faculty and staff within the program foster a very welcoming and inclusive environment, so I knew I had found my home in Women’s and Gender Studies.
Is there something you really enjoyed learning as a Women’s and Gender Studies student?
I really enjoyed WGST 2Q96: Art of Activism: Sexuality to Racial Justice. I had been very invested in unpacking the systems that oppress people, and how different intersections of identity map out the reality of oppression. The Art of Activism course was a fantastic bridging between the theories and discourse around anti-oppressive work, and the collective movements and grassroots organizations that work to resist and subvert hegemonic systems. The course featured different artistic forms of resistance, and it was both eye-opening and hopeful to see this creative of an approach and application of activism.
What courses, events, or experiences have been most memorable for you?
In addition to the Art of Activism, I will always remember the course WGST 3Q95: Sex Work and Sex Workers I took in my third year. The course was cross listed with Labour Studies and Sociology, and it took a very interdisciplinary approach to understanding intimate labours such as sex work and the social policy implications for sex workers.
I would also say that the seminars throughout my courses have been memorable. Most of my seminars became a safe space for all of us to unpack our emerging ideas and hesitations surrounding social justice and theories of women’s and gender studies. I had the pleasure of meeting and working with some of the best people in those seminars.
How has getting a degree in Women’s and Gender Studies influenced, or been influenced by, your career goals?
My degree has significantly influenced my passion for working with marginalized communities. I currently work at a women’s shelter, and I use the information and tools I gathered within the program to consistently show up and advocate for my clients. My degree in Women’s and Gender Studies also influenced me to continue my education in the field, so I am currently in the thesis stream of the Social Justice and Equity Studies MA at Brock. I am so thankful for my experiences within the Women’s and Gender Studies program, and I owe a large part of my successes to the education and guidance I received in the program.
What advice do you have for Women’s and Gender Studies students looking to make the most of their time in the program?
I would suggest that you get involved with university or community groups! There are liaisons and events planned within the Centre for Women’s and Gender Studies, and they are good places to meet people in the program. I would also suggest that if you are interested in activism and community building, there are organizations like OPIRG that have good volunteer opportunities and events.
Kat Fois
Alumna with a Social Worker Diploma completing the Master of Arts in Critical Sociology
Bachelor of Arts in Women’s and Gender Studies (2000)
“What drew me to the Women’s and Gender Studies program was how broad the learning is. You, of course, learn theory and feminism, but you also explore gender and society in the context of history, the workforce, beauty industry, sport, etc. There are so many opportunities to shape your learning around your interests. It gave me both a widened perspective on parts of society and identities that I haven’t experienced personally, as well as the chance to understand my own life experiences through a more macro perspective. I took something from every course that has allowed me to see and understand society in a broader and more thorough way.”

What would you like people to know about you and where you are now?
I am a mother to one son. I am currently working on my masters in Critical Sociology and working as a TA at Brock University.
In a few words, how would you describe the program?
The Women’s and Gender Studies program at Brock is fantastic. It provides the opportunity to learn about such a broad array of issues dealing with gender and society. The professors come from different areas of expertise and are all warm and open people with so much to offer.
What made Women’s and Gender Studies stand out for you as a program?
What drew me to the Women’s and Gender Studies program was how broad the learning is. You, of course, learn theory and feminism, but you also explore gender and society in the context of history, the workforce, beauty industry, sport, etc. There are so many opportunities to shape your learning around your interests.
Is there something you really enjoyed learning as a Women’s and Gender Studies student?
It gave me both a widened perspective on parts of society and identities that I haven’t experienced personally, as well as the chance to understand my own life experiences through a more macro perspective. I took something from every course that has allowed me to see and understand society in a broader and more thorough way.
How has getting a degree in Women’s and Gender Studies influenced, or been influenced by, your career goals?
Getting my B.A. in Women’s and Gender Studies opened the door for me to pursue my master’s degree in sociology. Learning about gender and intersectionality piqued my desire to understand other forms of oppression and the way challenges and privileges are embedded into our social systems and institutions. My research project for my MA is autoethnographic and focuses on mothering and race. I would never had even thought about research that was centered on my own experiences without learning about Indigenous methodologies and storytelling that is valued in feminist research. I also have the chance to work as a TA which I absolutely love! It is so exciting to share the enthusiasm I have for Gender Studies and society with young students.
What advice do you have for Women’s and Gender Studies students looking to make the most of their time in the program?
Look for courses that speak to your interests and curiosities! If you want to learn about women in ancient societies, or women in sport, women and labour, beauty and culture, ecofeminism, politics… there is a class for it! Follow your curiosity. There is so much to learn and so many brilliant professors to learn from.

“I was drawn to the Centre for Women’s and Gender Studies because it allows me to specialize my interests in sociology. The program offers a unique opportunity to delve deeper into gender-related topics and explore how they intersect with broader social issues.
I’d love to encourage anyone considering this program to fully embrace it for all that it offers. The knowledge, support, and community you’ll find here are truly invaluable. It’s an opportunity to grow both personally and academically, and I wholeheartedly recommend diving in and making the most of it.”
What brought you to the Centre for Women’s and Gender Studies at Brock?
I was drawn to the Centre for Women’s and Gender Studies because it allows me to specialize my interests in sociology. The program offers a unique opportunity to delve deeper into gender-related topics and explore how they intersect with broader social issues.
In a few words, how would you describe the program?
The program is inclusive, thought-provoking, and deeply interconnected with broader sociological themes. It encourages critical thinking about gender, power, and identity.
What has been your favourite course so far?
My favorite course has been WGST 3Q95: Sex Work and Sex Workers. This course offers a comprehensive examination of sex work, exploring various theoretical perspectives and their social policy implications.
What has been one of your best or most memorable experiences in the program?
One of my favorite experiences in the program was taking a class with Robyn Bourgeois, WGST 2P92: Gender and Violence. Hearing her personal story was empowering and reminded me of the importance of this program. Her passion for gender issues and her lived experiences inspired me to engage more deeply with the subject and motivated me towards advocacy.
What advice would you give to other students, or to someone interested in getting a degree in Women’s and Gender Studies?
Embrace the interdisciplinary nature of the program and engage with your peers. Women’s and Gender Studies thrives on complimenting many other disciplines learning. Also, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from professors, who are incredibly supportive and passionate about their work.
What future opportunities are you excited about?
I’m excited about the opportunities that lie ahead, whether it’s entering the workforce or pursuing graduate studies. I believe that the specialized knowledge I’ve gained through this program will allow me to approach any career or academic path with a strong understanding of gender issues and social dynamics. I look forward to applying this knowledge to make meaningful contributions in whatever field I choose.
Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself?
I’d love to encourage anyone considering this program to fully embrace it for all that it offers. The knowledge, support, and community you’ll find here are truly invaluable. It’s an opportunity to grow both personally and academically, and I wholeheartedly recommend diving in and making the most of it!
Kristen Koroneos
Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) in Political Science and Women’s and Gender Studies, Minor in History (2025)
“If you are interested in social justice and wish to explore beyond a single area of study, this program could be your saving grace. It offers an enriched learning experience, and while it addresses difficult or uncomfortable topics and themes at times, it is essential to understand the world around us and to genuinely acknowledge those who have faced unimaginable hurdles. Courses in this discipline delve into diverse topics such as Indigenous studies, history, politics, healthcare, and popular culture, among others, broadening knowledge across various sectors. I believe this is the quintessential “horizontal degree,” as it intersects with and examines a wide range of disciplines.”

What brought you to the Centre for Women’s and Gender Studies at Brock?
In my first year at Brock University, I had a free elective credit and chose to take Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies (WGST 1F90), primarily because it fit into my schedule. That simple decision changed the trajectory of my university career, as it was the course that solidified my passion for social justice, and led me to pursue a double-major. It opened my eyes to the countless injustices faced by equity-deserving groups – injustices that I had admittedly never learned about or considered beforehand.
In a few words, how would you describe the program?
I would describe this program as inspiring, empowering, and transformative. It challenges you to think deeper about heavily entrenched stereotypes, notions, and injustices in society and societal institutions, as well as possible actions for recourse.
What has been your favourite course so far?
Choosing just one favourite is quite challenging; therefore, I would have to select both Women in the Ancient World (WGST 2P61) and the Advanced Seminar in Feminist Thought and Activism (WGST 4P90).
What has been one of your best or most memorable experiences in the program?
The most memorable experience I have is attending a field trip with my professor and classmates in the Advanced Seminar in Feminist Thought and Activism (WGST 4P90) to the Marilyn I. Walker School of Fine and Performing Arts for Camille Turner’s exhibit, the Afronautic Research Lab. The lab encourages visitors to examine stacks of archives related to Canada’s transatlantic trade in African people. It was raw and emotional, and although the archives I read were quite difficult to flip through, the content was crucial for understanding Canada’s history, colonial ideologies, and systemic prejudice. It is one thing to discuss theories and histories in a classroom setting, and it is entirely different to immerse oneself in the realities, stories, and truths of others’ lived experiences.
What advice would you give to other students, or to someone interested in getting a degree in Women’s and Gender Studies?
In simple terms, if you are interested in social justice and wish to explore beyond a single area of study, this program could be your saving grace. It offers an enriched learning experience, and while it addresses difficult or uncomfortable topics and themes at times, it is essential to understand the world around us and to genuinely acknowledge those who have faced unimaginable hurdles. Courses in this discipline delve into diverse topics such as Indigenous studies, history, politics, healthcare, and popular culture, among others, broadening knowledge across various sectors. I believe this is the quintessential “horizontal degree,” as it intersects with and examines a wide range of disciplines.
What future opportunities are you excited about?
I am eager to keep examining research and analyzing data through a feminist lens in my future career, and I look forward to advocating for everyone, especially equity-deserving groups.

Isabella McLaughlin
Alumna completing a Master of Arts in Critical Sociology
Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) in Women’s and Gender Studies, Minor in Sociology, completion of the Law Plus program (2023)
“I have always been working towards the goal of becoming a lawyer and the Women’s and Gender Studies program has helped guide me to the specialized sector that I want to be further educated in and possibly practice in one day. Through learning about how systemic oppression operates and manifests I have developed a passion for making change at the systemic policy realm and am hoping to focus my future career in this and any specializations I take in my future legal education.”
What would you like people to know about you and where you are now?
After completing my B.A. (hons) in Women and Gender Studies I am now in the final stages of completing my M.A. in Critical Sociology at Brock University. I am also in the process of applying to law schools through which I hope to begin my legal education in September of 2025. Since finishing my undergraduate degree, I have been able to take the knowledge and passion I have gained through the program and apply it to my current employment role as a policy analyst.
In a few words, how would you describe the program?
The Women’s and Gender Studies program provides a foundational understanding of social and feminist theory to critically examine contemporary issues and prepare students for further engagement in the political and sociological realm.
What made Women’s and Gender Studies stand out for you as a program?
As I was preparing for post-secondary, I became very passionate about social justice after being introduced to the social sciences in the later years of high school. Wanting to explore the program more, I went to the Brock Fall Open House and had the opportunity to talk to various Women’s and Gender Studies faculty members. These faculty members showed me that this program allowed me to explore issues I was highly passionate about and also have foundational knowledge about social theory that help me in a career in law later down the road.
Is there something you really enjoyed learning as a Women’s and Gender Studies student?
I enjoyed that so many courses in the Women’s and Gender Studies department are cross listed with other disciplines as it allowed me to explore how the topics/issues we learn about affect content in every department of study and learn more about other topics I would have otherwise not gotten the chance to explore (i.e., the Classics).
What courses, events, or experiences have been most memorable for you?
The WGST/CLAS courses have been very memorable for me as it introduced me to how contemporary ideas and theories can be applied in a historical sense. These courses also allowed me to delve into a discipline that I would have otherwise not had the chance to but became a favorite of mine to take electives in.
How has getting a degree in Women’s and Gender Studies influenced, or been influenced by, your career goals?
I have always been working towards the goal of becoming a lawyer and the Women’s and Gender Studies program has helped guide me to the specialized sector that I want to be further educated in and possibly practice in one day. Through learning about how systemic oppression operates and manifests I have developed a passion for making change at the systemic policy realm and am hoping to focus my future career in this and any specializations I take in my future legal education.
What advice do you have for Women’s and Gender Studies students looking to make the most of their time in the program?
Get involved with the program any way you can, whether that be through social events, talking to other Women’s and Gender Studies majors, or even just attending office hours and getting to know the faculty. Everyone in this department is so passionate about what they’re doing/studying, and it is so nice to have the comradery when going through post-secondary.
Hannah Peter
TEFL/TESL Certified (2022) alumna completing a Master of Arts in Education
Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) in Women’s and Gender Studies, Minors in German Languages and Literature and Intercultural Communications (2020)
“The materials were directly relevant to my life as a woman living and growing up in Canada. While I am in a position of privilege as a white, cis-, heterosexual woman, there were lessons in my courses that invoked emotions I had not felt before. I had not originally enrolled as a Women’s and Gender Studies major but declared the switch to the program only two weeks into my first year. I was taking a second-year course in my first year when I realized that I felt a passion for ally-ship, the telling of inclusive histories and stories, and most importantly that the program began filling the gaps in my identity as a woman trying to navigate the world.”

“I am me, because of you.” Three generations of strong women (Hannah centre).
What would you like people to know about you and where you are now?
After I graduated from Brock University in 2020, I relocated to Germany, where I spent four years living and working. I spent the first two years working as a teacher’s assistant at a bilingual high school (similar to French immersion schools in Ontario) with students grades 5-13. Afterwards, I worked as an English language tutor for German students and a lecturer at a technical university. Working at the university was a full-circle moment, as I had been an international student there in 2017-2018 through Brock International. Now, I’m back at Brock completing a Master of Education. My motivation to study Education came from my experiences in the German elementary/high school and higher education systems. My purpose for studying is to learn and understand how Canadians can experience education in a more holistic way.
In a few words, how would you describe the program?
Informative, humbling, empowering.
What made Women’s and Gender Studies stand out for you as a program?
The materials were directly relevant to my life as a woman living and growing up in Canada. While I am in a position of privilege as a white, cis-, heterosexual woman, there were lessons in my courses that invoked emotions I had not felt before. I had not originally enrolled as a Women’s and Gender Studies major but declared the switch to the program only two weeks into my first year. (Originally, I was accepted as an English Studies major). I was taking a second-year course (WGST 2P00: Classic and Contemporary Discourses in Women’s and Gender Studies) in my first year when I realised that I felt a passion for ally-ship, the telling of inclusive histories and stories, and most importantly that the program began filling the gaps in my identity as a woman trying to navigate the world.
Is there something you really enjoyed learning as a Women’s and Gender Studies student?
In my final years, the WGST 4P91: Introduction to Feminist Research and WGST 4Q41: Social Policy courses were of great interest to me. Before I took these courses, I believed research was restricted to STEM and involvement in and understanding of policies were exclusively meant for politicians. In fact, this program taught me that research and policy are areas that I should be directly involved in because I am who they directly impact. Overall, I felt like I had learned the history and skills I always needed in life to make me a more rounded and empathetic person.
How has getting a degree in Women’s and Gender Studies influenced, or been influenced by, your career goals?
Of course, many family members and friends asked me “what are you going to do with this degree?”, and I asked myself the same question many times. This degree has played both practical and personal roles in my life. Firstly, this degree has made me a better global citizen. There are still many things that I need to learn and unlearn, but I strive to navigate the world as selflessly and community oriented as possible. I have used skills from this degree while volunteering in Canada and Germany, working in intercultural environments and securing positions in the education sector. Additionally, many academics who I have worked with show interest in my degree, citing that it brings a new perspective to the discussion.
What advice do you have for Women’s and Gender Studies students looking to make the most of their time in the program?
Your place in this program is important and we need you. When I was studying between 2015-2020, Women’s and Gender Studies wasn’t necessarily new, but upon telling people my major, I was very often met with rude remarks, discomfort, and sometimes insults. There are many people who believe that activism, the need to acknowledge women’s and marginalised group’s experiences, and learning unpleasant histories that do not fit the “norm” is a waste of time. Personally, for some time, I gave in and felt ashamed. I would tell people that I studied sociology because of the backlash I would get from family, friends, and strangers. In the last few years, something in me has changed and I very proudly tell people that I am a Women’s and Gender Studies Major. I regret now how I acted then, which is why I hope this is the piece you need to finally feel confident in your choice of studies. We must be proud of our studies because they are important and will be important until and beyond achieving equality in our world. We must not let other’s discomfort in knowing the truth discourage us from doing what we know is right. With that being said: take chances, explore your interests, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes! Without mistakes, we cannot learn.

Olivia Schmidt
Alumna in the Master of Arts in Critical Sociology
Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) in Sociology and Women’s and Gender Studies, with a concentration in Applied Social Research and Data Analysis (2024)
“I think what stood out the most to me was the wide range of courses and expertise that were offered – all of which looked really interesting to me. I was also attracted to the welcomeness and inclusivity that Women’s and Gender Studies offered.
It was so interesting to see how theories and concepts I learned in Women’s and Gender Studies applied to the world. Some of my favourite topics surrounded feminist methodologies, epistemologies and pedagogies, and of course, intersectionality.”
What would you like people to know about you and where you are now?
I loved being a Women’s and Gender Studies major! It was certainly a catalyst to where I am now; I’m currently pursuing my master’s degree here at Brock in Critical Sociology.
In a few words, how would you describe the program?
I’d define Women’s and Gender Studies at Brock as world-expanding, engaging, and inclusive.
What made Women’s and Gender Studies stand out for you as a program?
I think what stood out the most to me was the wide range of courses and expertise that were offered – all of which looked really interesting to me. I was also attracted to the welcomeness and inclusivity that Women’s and Gender Studies offered.
Is there something you really enjoyed learning as a Women’s and Gender Studies student?
It was so interesting to see how theories and concepts I learned in Women’s and Gender Studies applied to the world. Some of my favourite topics surrounded feminist methodologies, epistemologies and pedagogies, and of course, intersectionality.
What courses, events, or experiences have been most memorable for you?
WGST 1F90: Intro to Women’s and Gender Studies will always have a special place in my heart because it sparked my love for the discipline. I also loved WGST 2P98: Sexuality Studies: Foundations and WGST 4P91: Feminist Research: Negotiating Evidence and ‘Facts’ in a ‘Post-Truth’ Era. Both were practically useful as well as intellectually stimulating.
How has getting a degree in Women’s and Gender Studies influenced, or been influenced by, your career goals?
Women’s and Gender Studies helped me to realize I was interested in both teaching and research. My professors were inspiring and encouraged critical thinking. Now, I’m hoping to pursue my PhD once I’m finished up with my master’s, with the end goal of a career in academia!
What advice do you have for Women’s and Gender Studies students looking to make the most of their time in the program?
Get to know your professors and your cohort! I also always encourage people to discuss what you’re learning with your loved ones, the knowledge you gain in Women’s and Gender Studies needs to be more broadly known. 🙂
Muskaan Waraich
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Women’s and Gender Studies
“I was drawn to the Centre for Women’s and Gender Studies at Brock due to my curiosity and commitment to understanding intersectional feminism and how we can collaboratively foster international cooperation, especially in the context of ongoing conflicts and wars. I believe that integrating a gendered lens into political discourse and policymaking is crucial, as it acknowledges the experiences of women and girls from diverse backgrounds who are often marginalized and/or excluded from these discussions.”

What brought you to the Centre for Women’s and Gender Studies at Brock?
I was drawn to the Centre for Women’s and Gender Studies at Brock due to my curiosity and commitment to understanding intersectional feminism and how we can collaboratively foster international cooperation, especially in the context of ongoing conflicts and wars. I believe that integrating a gendered lens into political discourse and policymaking is crucial, as it acknowledges the experiences of women and girls from diverse backgrounds who are often marginalized and/or excluded from these discussions.
In a few words, how would you describe the program?
The program has enriched my understanding of feminism, allowing me to gain deeper insights into what it means to be an intersectional feminist and to provide these frameworks when engaging in political and social discourse.
What has been your favourite course so far?
My favorite course has been POLI/WGST 3P71: Gender and Politics with Professor Stefureak, as it has deepened my understanding of the relationship between gender and politics at both the domestic and international levels. The course was eye-opening, revealing how political issues are gendered in both public and private life. As someone who wants to work in policy, this experience has enriched my understanding of the importance of applying an intersectional lens in policymaking.
What has been one of your best or most memorable experiences in the program?
One of my most memorable experiences in this program was attending the Commission on the Status of Women in New York City in March 2023, with support from the Social Science department. I had the opportunity to participate in a wide range of events and dialogues focused on accelerating gender equality, not only at the international level but also domestically. Furthermore, I learned the importance of adopting a decolonial lens, which requires me to continually unlearn, relearn, and advocate, as emphasized by an Indigenous activist during the CSW conference.
What advice would you give to other students, or to someone interested in getting a degree in Women’s and Gender Studies?
A gendered lens is always important in every aspect of both private and public life. I recommend that everyone take a Women’s and Gender Studies course, as it provides a better understanding of how we can collectively work towards achieving gender equality in political, cultural, and social spaces.
What future opportunities are you excited about?
I am excited to share that I am working as a Feminist Peer Assistant with the Social Justice Center, and we will be launching our Bi-Weekly Menstrual Equity Discussion beginning on October 21st from 6 PM to 8:30 PM in TH235. To learn more, check out the Instagram page of Brock’s Social Justice Center. We look forward to having Brock students participate! If there are other programs or events you would like to see, please reach out to me at [email protected].
Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself?
I have always been eager to give back to the community while building relationships and connections rooted in empathy. My perspective as a first-generation Canadian and my identity as a Sikh-Punjabi woman have profoundly shaped my commitment to community service. My studies in Political Science and Women’s and Gender Studies at Brock University reflect my interest in gender equality and international affairs through an intersectional approach. I serve as a Youth Council Member for Plan International Canada and dedicate my time to my grassroots initiative, EmpowerUp. EmpowerUp is committed to accelerating gender equality through an intersectional approach, including through the Red Chest Project, which connects youth and adults with their peers to learn about period poverty. We work to break down the stigma surrounding menstruation by providing environmentally friendly products and advocating for greater menstrual equity in schools and public places.

Jessica Yusek
Alumna with a Master of Arts in History (2016)
Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) in History and Women’s and Gender Studies (2015)
“What made the program stand out for me was the varied and fascinating research backgrounds of the different lecturers and professors, graduate students, and teaching assistants. They each brought their own expertise and nuance to the courses and course material, which greatly enriched my experience as a Women’s and Gender Studies student.
Some of my favourite topics were on different grassroots movements worldwide, as well as the varied ways one can engage with and participate in activism. It helped me feel like I could participate in the program and in politics and activism more generally in meaningful ways.”
In a few words, how would you describe the program?
The program was intersectional and fulfilling, with courses in a wide range of topics. The program complements other degree programs as well – for example, in my own experience, my Women’s and Gender Studies degree complemented my interests in my History classes, and provided new avenues I could explore.
What made Women’s and Gender Studies stand out for you as a program?
What made the program stand out for me was the varied and fascinating research backgrounds of the different lecturers and professors, graduate students, and teaching assistants. They each brought their own expertise and nuance to the courses and course material, which greatly enriched my experience as a Women’s and Gender Studies student.
Is there something you really enjoyed learning as a Women’s and Gender Studies student?
Some of my favourite topics were on different grassroots movements worldwide, as well as the varied ways one can engage with and participate in activism. It helped me feel like I could participate in the program and in politics and activism more generally in meaningful ways.
What courses, events, or experiences have been most memorable for you?
In some of my introductory Women’s and Gender Studies courses, I was given the opportunity to take seminars and workshops in sexual violence response. This training provided me with the necessary tools to not only support others, but I’ve been able to utilize the framework in other trainings I’ve undertaken since, such as trauma-informed work.
How has getting a degree in Women’s and Gender Studies influenced, or been influenced by, your career goals?
I’m currently working in the not-for-profit sphere, and my degree in Women’s and Gender Studies has given me a solid foundation for my career trajectory. I’ve not only learned an incredible amount from the program, but I’ve gained and honed invaluable skills and fostered a lifelong love for learning about and advocating for social and feminist issues.
What advice do you have for Women’s and Gender Studies students looking to make the most of their time in the program?
Take advantage of everything you can! Attend lectures and workshops outside of your course requirements, get to know the people in the department and the program to learn more about them and what they’re involved in, and get involved in issues and activist work that are important to you.
With thanks to the students and alumni who have shared their experiences and made this page possible.
If you have a major or minor in Women’s and Gender Studies and are interested in being profiled on our website, please email [email protected] for more information.