Sara Komarnisky
Transnational migration between Mexico and Alaska
Dr. Gastón Gordillo
Holden
Canada
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
After completing my MA in Anthropology at the University of Manitoba I worked as a Research Associate with the Addiction and Mental Health Research Lab at the University of Alberta. It was a great job, but after a few years I realized that I really missed anthropology, as well as the time and resources to develop and pursue my own research questions. So, I decided to go back to school to pursue a PhD!
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I chose to study at UBC because the Department of Anthropology has an excellent and highly regarded PhD program and because I wanted to live in Vancouver. It's also a good place for me to be since it is situated between Alaska and Mexico, making for more convenient travel to my fieldsites.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
I think the best surprise has been how easy it is to get around Vancouver! With my bicycle and my UPass I can go almost anywhere.
What do you hope to accomplish with your research?
Usually when I tell someone about my research, they are surprised to hear that there are Mexicans in Alaska. So, one powerful thing I hope this project will do is dissolve stereotypes both about Alaska (as an isolated frontier wilderness) and about Mexican migrant workers (as "illegals" who walk across the border). Immigration is a really important issue in the United States and Canada, so I'd also like to be able to use my research to contribute to discussions about immigration policy.
What has winning a major award meant to you?
My project is intended to be multi-sited, meaning that I will do fieldwork in both Alaska and Michoacán. Travel is expensive, so winning a Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship means that I can plan my fieldwork without having to worry about how I will pay for it! Winning an award like this also makes me feel really grateful for the support and encouragement that I've received from my supervisor, my department, and my mentors both past and present. So many letters are written in support of an application like this – it's humbling!
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Invest in a good rain jacket – you'll need it.
