Ekamjot K. Cheema

As a child with a wild imagination, I pretended to be of various professions every day of the week: and, as an undergraduate, I felt directionless. However, for as long as I can remember, I have followed a calling to assist others. POST 3110/4900, Applied Policy Seminar and/or Special Topics Sustainability & Climate Change: Environmental Law & Stewardship, was the first breakthrough that not only changed the trajectory of my life, but also changed my perspective on my own potential!

I developed an interest in public policy while majoring in Applied Psychology where I learned and gained appreciation for the importance of applied research and critical thinking skills. Applied Policy Studies was a third-year course in which I conducted an evaluative analysis of the policy issue around increased alcohol consumption during COVID-19—I identified main underlying causes to be excessive marketing of alcoholism in media, normalization of a sedentary lifestyle, and hyper-consumerism due to variety and heap pricing. Even though it was daunting since I was the only one with a non-Public Policy background, I enjoyed learning about international laws and policies. I am grateful for the unwavering support of my professors, mentors, and peers who provided guidance and encouragement throughout my academic journey. Their commitment to excellence and abundance of knowledge not only inspired me, but also challenged me to push beyond my limits preparing me for future challenges.

I look forward to pursuing my graduate studies at Simon Fraser University in its Master of Public Policy program this Fall of 2024. This interdisciplinary program, with its focus on co-operative education, expands new horizons for individuals who admire practical experience and application in a real-world setting. My goal is to hone my ideas and skills to assist the public with issues specialized in health policy and mental health and wellness. I hope to grow professionally and make a lasting impact leveraging my background in psychology, research analysis, and social justice to contribute to the development and implementation of impactful public policies. I believe that by combining evidence-based practices with a deep understanding of human behaviour and societal dynamics, we can create lasting change that benefits all members of our community. Hence, no matter your faith, diligence, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status, seize every opportunity—you never know how it might start feeling like a miracle!