Alicia Barker-Åström

Dual Degree with Sciences Po, Honours in Political Science and International Relations
Where did Alicia work?
Work Term 1:
Junior Trade Commissioner, Global Affairs Canada
Work Term 2:
Junior Trade Commissioner, Global Affairs Canada
What did Alicia accomplish?
Junior Trade Commissioner, Global Affairs Canada
In Alicia’s role as a Junior Trade Commissioner at Global Affairs Canada, she excelled by drafting briefings for senior officials, coordinating high-level visits for senior officials, and facilitating communication on Canada’s trade relations with Japan, South Korea, and Mongolia. Alicia’s standout achievements included leading a visit by Mongolian officials, coordinating logistics for a Japanese Vice-Minister’s visit, and contributing to the signing of two Memorandums of Cooperation between Canada and Japan.
Bridging the Gap Between Academics and Work
Alicia has found a meaningful connection between her academic goals and her work at Global Affairs Canada. Her studies in International Relations at Sciences Po and UBC have challenged her to think about solutions to tackle real-world challenges. Working in Canada’s bilateral relations with Northeast Asian countries has shown her the far-reaching impact of her efforts. She plans to return to classes to further enhance her academic understanding and apply this newfound knowledge to her future job. Alicia’s passion for diplomacy is evident, and she is excited to continue bridging the gap between her academic interests and her professional career in this field.
How Arts Co-op Has Influenced Career Goals
Alicia’s co-op experience has been a career game-changer. It showed her the contrast between academia and the professional world, from communication styles to analytical techniques. This firsthand exposure, through the co-op program, has been instrumental in helping her adapt and focus on her true interests. As she envisions life post-graduation, Alicia is eager to translate the insights gained from her co-op into meaningful contributions in the field of diplomacy. Co-op not only confirmed her passion but also opened doors to alternative paths in diplomacy beyond government work. This novel awareness encourages her to explore other diplomatic realms, unlocking new possibilities for her career journey.
Alicia Barker-Åström



Dual Degree with Sciences Po, Honours in Political Science and International Relations
Where did Alicia work?
Work Term 1:
Junior Trade Commissioner, Global Affairs Canada
Work Term 2:
Junior Trade Commissioner, Global Affairs Canada
What did Alicia accomplish?
Junior Trade Commissioner, Global Affairs Canada
In Alicia’s role as a Junior Trade Commissioner at Global Affairs Canada, she excelled by drafting briefings for senior officials, coordinating high-level visits for senior officials, and facilitating communication on Canada’s trade relations with Japan, South Korea, and Mongolia. Alicia’s standout achievements included leading a visit by Mongolian officials, coordinating logistics for a Japanese Vice-Minister’s visit, and contributing to the signing of two Memorandums of Cooperation between Canada and Japan.
Bridging the Gap Between Academics and Work
Alicia has found a meaningful connection between her academic goals and her work at Global Affairs Canada. Her studies in International Relations at Sciences Po and UBC have challenged her to think about solutions to tackle real-world challenges. Working in Canada’s bilateral relations with Northeast Asian countries has shown her the far-reaching impact of her efforts. She plans to return to classes to further enhance her academic understanding and apply this newfound knowledge to her future job. Alicia’s passion for diplomacy is evident, and she is excited to continue bridging the gap between her academic interests and her professional career in this field.
How Arts Co-op Has Influenced Career Goals
Alicia’s co-op experience has been a career game-changer. It showed her the contrast between academia and the professional world, from communication styles to analytical techniques. This firsthand exposure, through the co-op program, has been instrumental in helping her adapt and focus on her true interests. As she envisions life post-graduation, Alicia is eager to translate the insights gained from her co-op into meaningful contributions in the field of diplomacy. Co-op not only confirmed her passion but also opened doors to alternative paths in diplomacy beyond government work. This novel awareness encourages her to explore other diplomatic realms, unlocking new possibilities for her career journey.