Several months ago I met with two University of Calgary colleagues, Professor Patrick Finn and Senator Colin Jackson. We chatted in my office about a number of things. I mentioned my interest in showcasing stories of interdisciplinary collaboration at the University of Calgary. Patrick and Colin talked about breaking down silos and about some of their initiatives in inter-faculty collaboration. Patrick also mentioned an on-campus group of students at the University of Calgary known as the Students of the Arts and Science Honours Academy (ASHA).
ASHA brings together 25 high-achieving undergraduate students from different disciplinary backgrounds to explore issues and ideas. It provides an innovative curriculum and encourages students from both the Faculties of Arts and of Science to learn and study together. Great stuff.
I finally had the pleasure to meet the students and mentors of the Arts and Science Honours Academy this evening. Branden Cave, the SASHA president, invited me to present at their Speaker Series. I spoke about my educational path and some of my career highlights. Following my presentation, the students and mentors asked several thoughtful questions that indicated to me that they had enjoyed and reflected on what I had to say.
The Arts and Science Honours Academy is doing some good work. http://www.ucalgary.ca/asha/ It is an enriching program worth considering for any student who has an interest in multidisciplinary learning and in working with like-minded classmates.
