Cameron Anderson’s (BSc '24) academic journey is a testament to the transformative power of curiosity. Initially drawn to political science through a liberal education requirement, he discovered a passion for exploring how political environments shape human development. Now pursuing a Master of Arts in Political Science, Cameron's work bridges his foundational interest in neuroscience with the complexities of political theory, driven by a commitment to lifelong learning.
Originally, I did not think anything that would change the course of my education would arise from the liberal education requirements. Use the opportunities presented by liberal education to explore fields that are unknown to you. You never know what may interest you.
Meet Cameron | Determined. Insightful. Hopeful.
Degree: Master of Arts | Major: Political Science
Why did you choose ULethbridge?
For my undergraduate degree, I heard of the neuroscience program at ULethbridge, as well as the renowned professors in the department. This, alongside the fact it is relatively close to home, made it an obvious choice for me.
Did you know what you wanted to study before you came to ULethbridge? Has your academic plan changed since you began your studies?
I was interested in the properties and relations that are unique to humans. What makes us human? That is why I majored in neuroscience for my undergrad. I would say my plan has not changed, I am still studying the human, just now from the perspective of political science.
What is your research based on? What unique opportunities do you get by taking part in this research? What are your biggest takeaways from being involved in this research?
My current research looks at the thought of such thinkers like Aquinas and Plato, among others. The goal of which is to analyze how these various thinkers thought of the relationship between an individual, and that individuals’ understanding of the political common good.
What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience?
This is a bit broad, but the transition from graduating with my undergraduate degree, to starting my master's. There is a jump in the quality of work you are expected to produce, and the focusing on a specific topic makes it a completely different experience than undergrad.
How have your professors impacted your education? Have any professors changed how you view the world or what you want to study?
I first took political science as a liberal education requirement, thinking I would only take one course and be done with it. The course I took taught by Dr. John von Heyking was not what I expected political science to be about at all. The field was much more complex than I originally anticipated, and aligned with my original interests that I was exploring in neuroscience. Eventually, the single course I took — just to fill out my undergrad degree requirements — would result in the pursuing of a Master of Arts in Political Science.
"Cameron's enthusiasm and curiosity know no bounds, and he possesses keen insight that enables him to think through complex questions of political theory and political psychology that is rare for someone at his stage of development." - Dr. John Von Heyking, Department of Political Science
What are your hopes/plans for the future?
The immediate plan is to focus on the completion of my master's. What comes next, I am not too worried about, as long as I can keep learning.
About Shining Students
Shining Students engage inside and outside of the classroom. What makes a student shine may differ from person to person, but they all share a passion for learning. They may be top students, involved in an innovative project, participating in ground-breaking research, playing Pronghorn athletics, fighting for social issues or all of the above! When students find something they enjoy and combine it with what they are good at, they shine.
Each year, the Faculty of Arts & Science's faculty and staff nominate students who exemplify the ULethbridge student spirit. Congratulations Cameron!