Lauren Root – Staff Writer

Photo courtesy of Christina Lépine

The Politics and International Studies Association’s (PISA) annual “Things I Wish I Knew in First Year” event offered advice and tips for new Bishop’s students, including the best ways to get involved in the Lennoxville community. Both professors and upper-level students shared critical information about university life, covering various topics. Student representatives explained how to get involved with PISA and other clubs, provided insights into Bishop’s International and shared tips on staying on track academically.  

PISA is a student-run association, and all students studying politics and international studies are members. PISA holds meetings throughout the year on various topics that are beneficial to political studies students, ranging from academic advice to networking opportunities. Their first meeting of the year was held in the Library’s Agora, where many PISA members and professors spoke. Professors and students from the politics and international studies department attended this event and shared advice for new students.  

When asked about the importance of this event for first-year students, PISA president Sasha Kardos-Machado expressed her desire to ease the transition between high school and university for fellow students. Kardos-Machado explained why she finds this event so important: “It’s a great way to meet other first years right off the bat and interact directly with professors and the chair of the department.” She also emphasized that this event is meant to be a safe place to ask questions so new students can find answers they might be hesitant to ask otherwise.   

A major topic of discussion for the meeting was the importance of getting involved in the Bishop’s community outside of the classroom. Irma Susset, The Campus Editor in Chief and political studies student, highlighted the value of getting to know new people with similar interests, she stated, “this can happen in classrooms and club meetings… The beauty of Bishop’s is the accessibility of the community and professors.” She added that “[..] by getting involved in clubs and taking an active role in the community, students can fully understand and experience the true Bishop’s culture.”

Valentin André, currently studying in the politics and international studies department, spoke about Bishop’s International and the many ways to study abroad while earning their Bishop’s degree. During his presentation he highlighted that, “all students have the opportunity to study abroad in a wide variety of destinations worldwide.” If students are interested in studying abroad, they should reach out to Bishop’s International via email or Instagram to learn more about their programs.  

Dr. Trygve Ugland, the current chair of the politics and international studies department, spoke on the importance of networking, whether by joining clubs or building relationships with professors. He stressed that “by creating connections with both students and professors, students will feel more comfortable asking questions about their education, such as how to change majors, or how to add a minor.” Dr. Ugland encourages students to contact their professors and academic advisors if they are interested in pursuing a new or second major or a minor.  

A final piece of advice shared at the event was that PISA will be updating their Instagram and website in the coming weeks with information about upcoming meetings. All PISA members encourage students, especially first-years, to reach out if they have any questions about courses or community engagement as they settle into the Lennoxville community.  

Photo courtesy of Christina Lépine