Faculty of Art
Name: Gautier Parthon de Von (alum, Class of 2020)
Nationality: France and Belgium
Programs Completed in Dual BA program: Sciences Po’s North America program at Reims; double major in International Relations and Political Science at UBC Vancouver
Why did you choose to pursue the UBC–Sciences Po Dual Degree?
I chose to pursue the UBC–Sciences Po Dual Degree because I wanted to have a unique and interdisciplinary education in the social sciences and humanities while experiencing two different cultures and academic systems. I was attracted by the opportunity to earn two Bachelor of Arts degrees in four years while studying in Canada and France. I was also interested in the specialization of each Sciences Po campus in a particular region of the world and the linguistic and cultural focus of the curriculum. I wanted to learn from distinguished and internationally-focused professors and researchers and join a diverse and dynamic community of students. I believed that this program would challenge me to think critically, creatively, and globally and prepare me to contribute positively to a complex and changing world.
What was most memorable about your time in Reims and in Vancouver?
In Reims, I enjoyed studying on the historic and beautiful campus of Sciences Po, which was formerly a Jesuit college dating back to the 17th century. I also loved exploring the city of Reims, which is famous for its cathedral, its champagne, and its role in the coronation of the kings and queens of France. I made many friends from different countries and cultures and learned a lot from the professors and researchers who are experts in their fields. I also had the opportunity to travel to other parts of France and Europe during my breaks.
Sciences Po Field Internship – In the summer of 1A, Gautier instructed English to middle and high schoolers in a Peruvian community organization that aims to reintegrate into society abandoned youth.
In Vancouver, I was amazed by the natural beauty and diversity of the UBC campus surrounded by forests, oceans, and mountains. I also appreciated the vibrant and multicultural city of Vancouver, which offers many attractions and activities for students. We benefited from the high-quality education and facilities at two of the world’s top research universities.
Go Global: UBC Research Abroad Funded Seminars – Gautier traveled to the Azores archipelago and the Canary Islands with UBC faculty member Professor Carlos Teixeira to study human displacement and migration. Thanks to UBC research abroad funding, he also traveled to Guatemala with UBC faculty members Professor Thomas Kemple and Professor Sylvia Berryman to study the Maya genocide and its theoretical implications for power and oppression.
I also participated in various clubs, events, and volunteer opportunities on and off campus, which enriched my personal and professional development. My most memorable experience was as Philanthropy Chairman of UBC’s chapter of Delta Kappa Epsilon, helping to organize an annual hockey tournament to raise awareness and money for cancer research and relief, which resulted in fundraising of $80.000,00 for the Canadian Cancer Society.
Delta Kappa Epsilon Philanthropy – Gautier was Philanthropy Chairman of UBC’s chapter of Delta Kappa Epsilon. He was presented with the Charles O’ Blaisdell DKE Leadership Award, which is awarded each year to the undergraduate who is judged the best all-around Deke in that academic year based on his contribution to the University, standing in extracurricular activities, and standing in scholastics.
What roles and opportunities are you pursuing after graduation?
Currently, I am a part-time parliamentary assistant in the Cabinet of MP Lisa Yasko of the Supreme Rada of Ukraine, who I met during one of my master’s degree classes at Harvard University in geopolitics. I am also a Risk and Strategy Trainee at the German Marshall Fund of the United States, a transatlantic think tank.
Post-graduation work experience in the UN– Gautier was part of the Peace & Security team, headed by Monsignor Charters (pictured), during his fellowship at the Mission of the Holy See to the United Nations in New York, US. He attended the General Assembly and Security Council meetings on a regular basis to report on the multilateral negotiation of States when dealing with conflicts and periods of political instability.
How have your experiences from the program contributed to these post-graduation opportunities?
My experience as a UBC–Sciences Po student has helped me to succeed in these opportunities in several ways. First, I have learned to appreciate different perspectives and values and to communicate effectively in multiple languages. This has enabled me to work with diverse teams and stakeholders and to adapt to different cultural and institutional contexts. Second, I have acquired a solid foundation in the social sciences and humanities, as well as the ability to analyze complex problems, conduct research, and work in teams. This has given me the tools and methods to produce high-quality work and deliver innovative solutions. Third, I have benefited from the course material and approaches of UBC and Sciences Po, which have exposed me to cutting-edge theories and practices in various disciplines. This has helped me to develop a critical, creative, and global mindset, and to stay updated on the latest developments and trends in my fields of interest.