Taylor Breckles

English master's student in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

I am currently a Master's student in the English Department, but I have a cross-disciplinary focus between English and Indigenous Studies. I am also an editor and I aspire to work in publishing.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO SFU?

I chose to come to SFU because of the amazing Indigenous Studies department and all of the wonderful faculty!

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR RESEARCH OR YOUR PROGRAM TO A FAMILY MEMBER?

I am currently working on a project that examines traditional language use and revitalization as an element of colonial resistance among Scottish (Scots Gaelic) and Cree peoples. I am also exploring the history and impact of language loss due to colonialism. In my research, language erasure is being viewed as a bridge between historical colonialism and contemporary colonialism in order to demonstrate that colonialism is not "a thing of the past," and that resistance against assimilation has been and continues to be expressed through song poetry and in the use of traditional languages. I am also looking into translation work and how contemporary translations of songs are examples of decolonization strategies present throughout popular culture.

WHAT ARE YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOYING ABOUT YOUR STUDIES/RESEARCH AT SFU?

I enjoy that SFU welcomes interdisciplinary work and that the faculty are very supportive in terms of mentorship and guidance (both personal and professional).

HAVE YOU BEEN THE RECIPIENT OF ANY MAJOR OR DONOR-FUNDED AWARDS? IF SO, PLEASE TELL US WHICH ONES AND A LITTLE ABOUT HOW THE AWARDS HAVE IMPACTED YOUR STUDIES AND/OR RESEARCH.

I am fortunate enough to be the recipient of the David and Mary Macaree Graduate Fellowship and the Dr. M. Sheila O'Connell Publication award. Both of these awards have enabled me to focus on my studies. The fellowship in particular is funding my thesis work and I am exceptionally grateful to have this support.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PROGRAM/POSTDOC POSITION TO SOMEONE STILL SEARCHING FOR A PROGRAM OR POSTDOC POSITION?

I would say that the English program is perfect for people who want a little bit of everything! There are interdisciplinary research options, the people involved (cohorts and professors) are all varied in their interests, and the courses are also diverse and allow you to hone different skills. From Medieval to Indigenous literatures to Marxism, English has a bit of everything!

Contact : tlb9@sfu.ca

Additional Links 

• LinkedIn