Gradlife

Name: P.J. Partington

Program of study:MA Political Science

After working on climate change policy in the non-profit sector for a number of years, I was getting quite frustrated by the lack of progress. The opportunity to consider some of the political barriers we’re facing on climate change in a little more depth was very appealing, and that’s what I am hoping to get out of my program.

Favourite study spot: My couch at home, with a cup of tea and a sleeping dog.

What’s your favourite way to take a break from school work? I’ve been getting increasingly creative with my procrastination. Lately I’ve made a project of sending mystery letters to friends. George Bowering talks in one of his poems about going around to his friends a month after Christmas dishing out presents and good cheer “in front of their startled & uncomprehendingly beautiful eyes.” I’ve always liked that.

What does an average Tuesday look like for you? Tuesday is my campus day this term. After doing some studying at home in the morning I head in for a noon class. After that I usually spend some time wandering around like a hypoglycemic zombie in search of food. After that it’s a mix of gym, studying and meetings before another class from 6 to 8. They’re both policy classes, but in different departments. The contrast keeps it interesting!

What are you reading these days? I just finished MaddAddam. Unfortunately I now have a pile of serious books waiting for me.

Tell me about the last time you felt really proud of your work: If I may say, our wedding! My wife and I got married in September and it was beyond awesome. Seeing everyone there enjoying themselves made me incredibly proud of all the work we put into the day.