A mature student with a family, Mr. Justin Sutton gradually cultivated an interest in history and returned to school after a decade as a Canadian television producer. His research has contributed to his desire to combine his media background with a history degree that will inform his future studies in policy and organizational communication at York University.
How will you make a difference with your Trent degree?
I will be attending graduate school in September (York University, Communication and Culture). I am very interested in twentieth century political history (specifically North American), Indigenous history, as well as social and political philosophy. During my graduate degree I’m looking to marry my education in history with my professional media background to work in policy or organizational communication.
What is the best thing about studying at Trent? The best thing about studying at Trent, for me, was having unmediated access to my professors, small class sizes, and the freedom that comes from being in an environment that fosters open, thoughtful, inquiry. I got to know many of my professors very well. This is the greatest attribute of Trent to my mind, easy access to one’s professors. Most offered excellent support and guidance when asked, and several were extremely supportive of my work. Three in particular, Christine Freeman-Roth, Michael Eamon, and Finis Dunaway, championed my writing, and gave me a great deal of confidence that my ideas are worthwhile, and I should continue on to graduate school.
Interests and passions:
I have always been interested in history but the pursuit of it academically came about through a slow process of awakening to the broader world around me. I had many questions I wanted answered when I came to Trent and I set about finding courses that would answer them.
Extracurricular activities:
I was a peer mentor for one year, which I really enjoyed.
Awards and Scholarships received at Trent University:
The Seth Newhouse Award, 2010, highest mark in “The History of the Indians of Canada.”
The James Middleton essay prize in humanities (2010-2011 winner in philosophy)
Dean’s honour list each year at Trent
Symons Medal at Convocation
