Malaspina University-College hosts Political Studies conference for first time

Globalization, the terrorist attack on the World Trade Centre in 2001 and Canada’s relationship with the Middle East are among the many topics up for discussion at the British Columbia Political Studies Association Annual General Meeting, May 5 and 6.

"Regional and National Responses to Global Pressures: Plus ca Change?", will feature a dozen different presentations by political science graduate students from across Canada and the United States.

The more than 30 faculty and graduate students are showcasing their chosen research topics, which should make for an informative and enlightening two-day experience.

"This is an opportunity for graduate students to present their work in a slightly less intimidating environment then at a national conference," said Nanaimo organizer Dr. Jeremy Rayner, professor and chair in the Malaspina University-College Political Science department.

"It gives our students an opportunity to meet faculty and graduate students from other universities, to ask questions and to get an informal glimpse at what it is like to be in a graduate program."

Anyone with an interest in political studies or global studies would find this an interesting event, said Rayner.

Besides offering a great selection of engaging presentations, an award in honour of the late Michael Meade, a popular Malaspina University-College Political Science instructor, will be given out to a deserving essayist. The award is called the Michael Meade Prize for Best Lower Division Undergraduate Essay.

The conference wraps up on May 6 with a BC Politics Round Table. All the presentations will be held at Malaspina University-College, 900 Fifth Street, Nanaimo. Conference fees are $90 per person or $40 per student.

To register go to www.sfu.ca/igs/agm.html or call Janeane MacGillivray at 740-6393.