We are thrilled to share the news! On May 24th, Melanie Kilchherr, a Modern European Studies Major in the Department of Central, Eastern and Northern European Studies, will be giving the graduation address for the class of 2023.
Congratulations to Melanie, and all of our graduating CENES students of 2023, whom the CENES community is immensely proud of. In an interview with Ilinca Iuraşcu, Director of the MEST program in CENES, Kilchherr discussed why she majored in Modern European Studies: “Graduating from CENES with a MEST degree has opened a variety of doors for my future. Regardless of where my career and education take me, I know that the staff, faculty, and students of the CENES department will be supportive and helpful in helping me achieve my future goals.” Below is the interview describing how her major has influenced her time at UBC.
How did you choose to become a Modern European Studies Major?
At first, I was interested in a different program at UBC, but after taking some introductory courses in preparation for the major, I realized that my passions coincided more with the MEST Major. I am so glad that I discovered the MEST major, as it aligns so seamlessly with my academic passions.
What have been some of the most rewarding experiences in the program so far?
I have found the participation in the Witnessing Auschwitz undergraduate research seminar to be the most rewarding experience, as it provided me not only the once in a lifetime opportunity to learn from Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum staff and researchers in the field of Holocaust studies, but it also taught me how to improve as a young researcher and academic.
How would you describe the program in a few words?
The MEST program is both a tightly-knit and highly supportive interdisciplinary program that educates students on any and all aspects of European Studies, allowing students the flexibility to choose amongst courses ranging all the way from disciplines in science to humanities.
What advice would you give to those who are currently choosing their undergraduate degrees? Does a MEST major pair well with other programs (minors / majors)? What careers does it help you prepare for?
My best advice for students in the process of choosing their undergraduate degrees is to recognize what classes or academic fields piques your interest and to use that as a guide in discovering what major/minor is the best fit for you.
The MEST major pairs well with International Relations as well as foreign language or studies minors.
Any post-graduation plans you’d like to share with us?
My post-graduate plans include attending law school and practicing in the field of either international corporate or family law.
Congratulations to Melanie and the class of 2023! We at CENES cannot wait to celebrate all of their achievements.
