My history degree from Laval University has played a vital role in my journey within Quebec’s political and francophone spheres. It is a source of my interest in politics, democracy and the parliamentary system, an interest that became a passion overtime. In addition, the methodological and intellectual rigor developed during my baccalaureate and my master’s degree have allowed me to find my place within a big institution and to work on very current questions.
I recently obtained a position at the Quebec National Assembly’s Interparliamentary and International Relations and Protocol Commission. In concrete terms, I contribute to the implementation of interparliamentary cooperative activities and projects whose main objective is the democratic reinforcement of parliamentary institutions. This translates into direct support to parliaments in different countries, as well as training for MPs and officials of these assemblies. I also support experts and members from Quebec who represent the Quebec National Assembly abroad in various activities. Attached to the Francophonie, I contribute principally to the issues concerning education and culture. This allows me to conduct research, write (speeches, briefing notes), and handle the logistics of various events. I have similar responsibilities when the National Assembly receives delegations of parliamentarians or holds meetings of international organizations.
The exciting career I am currently pursuing may seem far from history. Especially if you consider that my graduate studies were on the subject of the political and parliamentary history of Quebec in the nineteenth century. But history inspires me every day. Whether it is to conduct a thorough research, to write a speech or a report, to address all types of audiences in a clear matter or to discuss different issues accurately and delicately, my degree in history is my toolbox. History has prepared me to tackle complex issues with diplomacy, tact and acumen.
If there is one thing that my studies have allowed me to understand is that history leads to everything. The intellectual rigour, the communication skills and the scientific and methodological approach that one acquires with a history degree are tools that open doors. Add a little passion and everything becomes possible.