Politics, history, language...and soccer?

April 2011

According to Dr. Jessica Stites Mor, assistant professor of Latin American Studies with the Irving K. Barber School of Arts and Sciences at UBC’s Okanagan campus, the study of Latin America is becoming increasingly important, as many of its nations are rapidly turning into major global powers.  Latin America’s many changing realities have also led scholars and policy makers to reconsider key issues such as democratic pluralism, social justice, and sustainability from a Latin American perspective.

Students enrolled in Latin American Studies courses have the opportunity to work with faculty in several different disciplines.  Classes cover a range of topics in anthropology, history, indigenous studies, political science, Spanish, and sociology—all of which come together to provide a rich understanding of many of the complex and fascinating aspects of Latin America. Students can also spend a semester or summer studying abroad.

For Odd Gleditsch, who is pursuing a major in international relations, the interdisciplinary approach that Latin American Studies takes is not only relevant—Latin America, for instance, has become one of Canada’s top priorities in the development of foreign policies—but it allows him to focus on the complex cultural intricacies of a particular place.

“Doing a minor in Latin American Studies allows me to complete my international relations degree, but at the same time allows me to gain knowledge on a specific region, culture, and political environment.  As part of my Latin American Studies minor, I have taken courses in sociology, history, political science, and Spanish.  This has introduced me to a variety of theoretical lenses and perspectives.”

And yes, this also includes studying Latin America’s most popular sport.

“Latin America as a region is interesting because of its variety, diversity, and complexity.  I have so far studied everything from Mayan culture to Brazilian soccer.”

This diversity gives students the opportunity to build relationships with different professors, and it also extends outside the classroom, where students can partake in many events, such as guest speakers, film screenings, and social gatherings, which add to students’ experience and education.

“Overall, taking a minor in Latin American studies, as well as being involved with the Latin American studies department, has really contributed to my educational experience; it’s also furthered my interest in the region,” adds Gleditsch.

When it comes to pursuing his studies at the graduate level, Gleditsch believes that his minor in Latin American Studies will give him an advantage.

“When applying for grad school, where it’s getting more and more important to stand out, a Latin American Studies major or minor is a bonus compared to more general degrees.”

Latin American Studies is part of Economics, History, Philosophy, Political Science & Sociology in the Irving K. Barber School of Arts and Science.  For more information on programs offered by the Irving K. Barber School of Arts and Sciences, visit: http://www.ubc.ca/okanagan/ikbarberschool/welcome.html. 

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