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Yui Fujiki had no formal background in political science or international relations. Being a student of English literature, the idea of transitioning to these fields was intimidating to her at first. But through determination and hard work, she not only succeeded but found clarity in her academic direction. However, while she was still completing her BA, she began volunteering outside of her coursework with organizations working on nuclear disarmament and governance. These early experiences ignited her interest in international justice and policy.

鈥淚 realized that understanding political structures and policymaking is essential for addressing global issues effectively,鈥� she reflects. 鈥淭hat realization led me to pursue a second master's degree in political science at A片资源吧 (SFU), where I could deepen my expertise in governance, policy analysis, and energy politics.鈥�

Fujiki鈥檚 academic journey has been one of discovery, shaped by a lifelong passion to make the world a better place. 鈥淔rom an early age, I鈥檝e believed that positive change is possible,鈥� she says. 鈥淏ut as I got older, I began asking myself: What knowledge do I need to contribute meaningfully to that change? That question brought me to political science; a field that offers tools to understand governance, policies, and the systems shaping our societies.鈥�

Her undergraduate studies in English literature left her feeling disconnected from her deeper purpose to make a difference in the world. Eager to engage with global challenges, she immersed herself in peacebuilding initiatives, youth sustainability programs, and discussions on nuclear disarmament. 鈥淎t the time, I had no formal knowledge of politics or international relations,鈥� she admits. 鈥淭ransitioning into those fields felt overwhelming, but I knew it was a necessary step if I truly wanted to contribute to meaningful change.鈥�

Fujiki went on to pursue graduate studies in Peace Studies at Hiroshima City University located in a city with a profound history of nuclear tragedy and peace advocacy. There, she focused on nuclear disarmament and the broader implications of global governance and international law, which laid the groundwork for her later research. That experience reaffirmed her passion and guided her to SFU, where she could explore her interests further in the intersection of nuclear issues and public policy.

Fujiki鈥檚 research focuses on nuclear waste governance and the role of social movements in influencing policy, particularly in Ontario, Canada, and Hokkaido, Japan. 鈥淚 examine how grassroots activism and Indigenous advocacy shape nuclear waste policies, emphasizing the need for inclusive governance and sustainable solutions,鈥� she explains.

Through one of her favorite courses, Public Policy (POL 856), Fujiki gained a comprehensive understanding of how policies are formulated, implemented, and evaluated. 鈥淭he case studies on Canadian policy frameworks helped me grasp the complexities of stakeholder engagement, regulatory processes, and the challenges of balancing economic and environmental priorities.鈥�

Another influential course was Energy Policy (POL 452W), which explored the intersection of politics, economics, and sustainability in energy decisions. 鈥淧OL 452W gave me a strong foundation in analyzing how governments address issues like clean energy transitions and fossil fuel dependency,鈥� she says. 鈥淥ne of the most insightful discussions we had was about the political feasibility of transitioning to low-carbon energy sources, which reinforced my interest in studying nuclear waste governance and how policies can be shaped by both economic and social pressures.鈥�

Beyond coursework, Fujiki actively volunteered with policy-oriented initiatives. Notably, she supported the Ontario Clean Air Alliance, where she applied her academic knowledge to real-world advocacy for clean energy and nuclear accountability. These experiences allowed her to contribute directly to environmental governance, advocacy, and community engagement.

鈥淚 truly appreciate the inclusive and collaborative nature of the political science community at SFU. The program fostered an environment where graduate students were encouraged to participate in conferences, research discussions, and interdisciplinary projects, providing numerous opportunities for engagement. Even though my focus was on research and external advocacy work, I always felt supported by faculty and peers who valued critical thinking, dialogue, and policy impact.鈥�

Several mentors had a profound impact on Fujiki鈥檚 academic journey. 鈥淒r. Anil Hira, my supervisor, has been an incredible mentor. His guidance, curiosity, and support pushed me to refine my research and deepen my understanding of policy. His feedback was instrumental in shaping my thesis on nuclear waste governance in Ontario and Hokkaido.鈥�

She also credits her research partner, Dr. Ann-Elise Lewallen of the University of Victoria. 鈥淥ur intellectual exchanges have been incredibly inspiring. Her insights into Indigenous governance and environmental justice have deeply influenced my work. Having a mentor who also understands my personal journey has been invaluable.鈥�

During her academic journey at SFU, Fujiki received incredible opportunities to present her research at prestigious international conferences, including the Pacific Northwest Political Science Association Conference and the American Graduate School in Paris Conference. 鈥淭hese experiences were deeply meaningful, as they allowed me to engage with scholars, policymakers, and activists, exchange perspectives on governance and environmental justice, and contribute to important discussions on nuclear waste governance and social movements in Ontario and Hokkaido. The recognition of my research through funding from SFU鈥檚 Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS), the Political Science Department, and the Clean Energy Research Group (CERG) was also an unforgettable moment, reaffirming that my work was valued and that it had the potential to shape policy conversations.鈥�

Looking ahead, Fujiki remains committed to shaping policies that address climate change, energy transitions, and social equity. Her focus is on developing transparent, data-driven, forward-thinking policies that support long-term resilience and sustainability. 鈥淚 hope to make a meaningful impact, the one that bridges knowledge and action for a more just and sustainable world.鈥�

As she bids farewell to SFU, this is what Fujiki shares with aspiring political science students:

1.     Embrace learning with curiosity, joy, and an open heart. Education isn鈥檛 just about gaining knowledge; it鈥檚 a journey of discovery that expands your worldview and helps you engage meaningfully with the world.

2.     Follow what truly resonates with you. The most fulfilling paths are rarely linear. Growth often comes from exploring different disciplines, perspectives, and ideas. Stay authentic, it leads to deeper engagement and unexpected opportunities.

3.     Welcome challenges. Setbacks and uncertainty are not signs of failure. They鈥檙e essential to growth. Learn to navigate difficulties with patience and resilience.

4.     Cherish the people who stand beside you. Success is never a solo endeavor. It鈥檚 built through the support of mentors, peers, and loved ones. A strong community is one of your greatest assets in academia and beyond.

Above all, stay true to yourself, remain open to growth, and trust your journey even when the path seems uncertain. Every step, no matter how small, contributes to something greater. Believe in your ability to make a difference, and let that belief guide you forward."

Acknowledging SFU for shaping her ability to communicate complex ideas effectively, through academic writing as well as public engagement, Fujiki鈥檚 insightful experience as a teaching assistant helped her in mentoring students, facilitating discussions, and making political theories and policies accessible to different audiences. 鈥淭hese skills will be essential as I continue working in policy, where clear communication and the ability to translate research into actionable recommendations are critical. Perhaps most importantly, SFU has instilled in me the understanding that learning is an ongoing process.鈥�

Even though Fujiki鈥檚 academic journey as a political science student at SFU has come to an end, she continues to remain committed to lifelong learning. 鈥淲hether in government, international organizations, or research institutions, I feel prepared to contribute to policy discussions that prioritize sustainability, equity, and informed decision-making, and for that, I am deeply grateful.鈥�