Sage Broomfield is a third year International Relations Major and the new First Nations and Indigenous Studies (FNIS) assistant. She grew up in Victoria, British Columbia but her familial and cultural background is of the Albertan Sawridge Cree Nation. Her academic interests include Indigenous and Canadian legal systems, International security, and politics.
Hey Sage! Could you tell us a little bit about what you’re studying and how did you decided on your major/program?
I am studying International Relations which is an interdisciplinary major that combines history, economics and political science, as well as many other courses through the three specialty streams. I am planning on going into the diplomacy, security and peace stream. I decided before I applied to UBC that this was the program for me. I’ve always been interested in politics but also appreciate the interdisciplinary and historical approach that IR takes. It lets me analyze world politics through a cultural and historical lens. The program has also allowed me to bring in my own interests into my studies, Aboriginal representation and consideration in law and policy, and security technology.
You’re the new FNIS assistant through the student Work/Learn program, congrats! Can you describe your position and how it is going so far?
I work in the FNIS department office as the student Project Assistant. One of my main responsibilities is the bi-weekly publication of The Post; a newsletter that lets students and alumni know about news and events at UBC and in the community. There is also job, volunteer and even scholarship opportunities that are published, it’s a great resource for students. I used it a lot in my first two years, before I got hired! I also do administrative tasks that help the FNIS department cater to students. It’s cool being a part of the behind the scene stuff that as students, we forget goes on. It has been an eye opening experience and I am really enjoying being a part of the department!
What do you like to do when you’re not in the office or classroom?
I love to read or listen to podcasts, I like to diversify the content I’m learning by stepping out of my comfort zone and listening/reading content that I wouldn’t get in the classroom. I also like to get out and into the city. Vancouver has so many art galleries, improv shows, literary events and interesting neighborhoods that I like to explore when I have the time.
What do you like to do to de-stress? Any tips on balancing school, work and life?
I think being honest with yourself about how much you have going on. This is certainly something I have struggled with; it’s difficult to admit that you can’t do it all. I started focusing on the activities, jobs, and volunteer positions that gave me energy and felt rewarding long term. Feeling fulfilled and productive can often mean taking on too much. To combat this, I like to take time for self-care that is active; I’ll explore my neighborhood on a run, check out a new coffee shop while studying, or cook a meal while I watch a Netflix series.
UBC can be a big, daunting place. Do you have any advice for Indigenous students on getting more involved on campus and making new friends?
I really enjoy making friends in classes, but this can be hard! It’s super scary to just walk up to someone and say hi, so I’ve found a hack. I always make a point of getting to know the people in my discussion classes. I usually make a study group on Facebook for the class and then arrange study meet ups. Sometimes if there is a relevant lecture happening on campus, we’ll arrange to go as a group. There are also so many resources available to us as Aboriginal students; the Longhouse, ASA and CIS often hold luncheons or host guest speakers, these can be great events to get talking to fellow students.
What are your plans after you complete your undergraduate studies?
The world seems a little daunting right now but I know I’d love to end up in law or security technology. I’d love to meld the two and study aviation and space law at McGill. That’s a long term goal though, I feel really lucky to even be getting an education. I’m a big believer that things seem to work out in one way or another so my plan is to follow what excites me. Hopefully that leads me to travel and then eventually to a masters or International Law degree. For now, I’m enjoying my undergrad and exploring the opportunities that are available to students because there are so many!
ASA Tip: To subscribe to The Post, please email fnis.arts@ubc.ca or fnis.assistant@ubc.ca.
