Sonja Van Der Putten

Educational Theory and Practice doctoral student in the Faculty of Education

I am a PhD candidate in the Educational Theory and Practice: Curriculum and Pedagogy Stream at Simon Fraser University.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO SFU?

I chose to come to SFU because the faculty is highly engaged in local and global community-based issues. The research conducted at SFU is equity seeking, and takes a critical, social-justice based approach to addressing systemic barriers in our community, making a real world impact.

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

My research is focused on students from refugee backgrounds; settlement and belonging; education equity in higher education; Canadian education policy and decision-making; and the role of gender in equitable educational access.

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

At SFU I have enjoyed the collegiality of my peers, the support of the faculty, and the delicious treats and friendly smiles at Renaissance coffee.

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 have received SFU's graduate fellowship funding as well as a SSHRC Joseph-Armand Bombardier graduate scholarship. This funding has been instrumental in enabling me to focus on creating high quality research.

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

Find a program that you are passionate about, and that contributes to making positive change.

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE?

I am grateful for the on-going support and guidance of my supervisors and committee members.

Contact : svanderp@sfu.ca