Kailey Peckford
Why did you choose your program at UBC and what did you enjoy most about it?
I chose the Master of Arts in Sociology program at UBC for the opportunity to conduct qualitative research in my area of study, queer nightlife, and to learn from experts in the field. The program’s leading scholars enriched my learning as did my peers. It was also incredible to live so close to the ocean and mountains!
What choices did you make at UBC that contributed to your career success / journey?
The opportunity to conduct research relevant to the field I now work in had a huge impact on my career today.
What was your first job after graduation and what other jobs did you have before your current position?
After graduating, I moved back to the city I grew up in in Alberta and began working in the Office of Sexual Violence Prevention, Education and Response at MacEwan University. After a year, I continued in the field as an education program coordinator at the University of Alberta Sexual Assault Centre before departing to devote myself full-time to my business, For Better Consent Education.
What do you like about your current job? How does it relate to your degree?
In my current job as the founder of my business, I develop and deliver workshops and training on sexual violence prevention and topics related to sexual health. My background in sociology has created a strong foundation for this work, and I still regularly keep up with new research (from sociology and other disciplines). Because we are always learning more as a society, it’s critical to stay plugged into new developments and to seek out ongoing education wherever possible.
Is your current career path as you originally intended? What challenges did you face in launching your career?
Working in sexual violence prevention as an educator is my dream job. Although I was privileged to find a job quite quickly after graduating, I applied to more than 100 roles before finding the right fit. The job market is tough! It was important for me to not take it personally when dealing with this kind of rejection, keeping in mind structural barriers to finding meaningful employment.
From your experience, what has been the value of having an Arts degree?
Arts degrees teach critical thinking skills that are essential to any career working with other people. The theories and methods I learned in my program are foundational to the work I do today as a sexual violence prevention educator. Research-informed programming is essential to making real change and shifting cultural norms.
What advice would you give to students and alumni interested in breaking into your industry?
There is a lot of misinformation out there about the topic of sexual violence, but as a student you have access to a wealth of information including research, experts in the field, and opportunities to volunteer and get hands on experience in prevention and support work. Take advantage of this access!
Kailey Peckford
Why did you choose your program at UBC and what did you enjoy most about it?
I chose the Master of Arts in Sociology program at UBC for the opportunity to conduct qualitative research in my area of study, queer nightlife, and to learn from experts in the field. The program’s leading scholars enriched my learning as did my peers. It was also incredible to live so close to the ocean and mountains!
What choices did you make at UBC that contributed to your career success / journey?
The opportunity to conduct research relevant to the field I now work in had a huge impact on my career today.
What was your first job after graduation and what other jobs did you have before your current position?
After graduating, I moved back to the city I grew up in in Alberta and began working in the Office of Sexual Violence Prevention, Education and Response at MacEwan University. After a year, I continued in the field as an education program coordinator at the University of Alberta Sexual Assault Centre before departing to devote myself full-time to my business, For Better Consent Education.
What do you like about your current job? How does it relate to your degree?
In my current job as the founder of my business, I develop and deliver workshops and training on sexual violence prevention and topics related to sexual health. My background in sociology has created a strong foundation for this work, and I still regularly keep up with new research (from sociology and other disciplines). Because we are always learning more as a society, it’s critical to stay plugged into new developments and to seek out ongoing education wherever possible.
Is your current career path as you originally intended? What challenges did you face in launching your career?
Working in sexual violence prevention as an educator is my dream job. Although I was privileged to find a job quite quickly after graduating, I applied to more than 100 roles before finding the right fit. The job market is tough! It was important for me to not take it personally when dealing with this kind of rejection, keeping in mind structural barriers to finding meaningful employment.
From your experience, what has been the value of having an Arts degree?
Arts degrees teach critical thinking skills that are essential to any career working with other people. The theories and methods I learned in my program are foundational to the work I do today as a sexual violence prevention educator. Research-informed programming is essential to making real change and shifting cultural norms.
What advice would you give to students and alumni interested in breaking into your industry?
There is a lot of misinformation out there about the topic of sexual violence, but as a student you have access to a wealth of information including research, experts in the field, and opportunities to volunteer and get hands on experience in prevention and support work. Take advantage of this access!
