When she first set foot on UBC Okanagan’s campus, surrounded by mountains and nature, far from the hustle of her hometown Mexico City, Ana Salgado knew she’d found something special.
“I’ve always wanted to live close to nature, and in a more peaceful and slower environment,” Salgado shares. “The fact that this campus was way smaller than UBC Vancouver ticked off a box for me.”
Now a graduate student in the Interdisciplinary Graduate Studies (IGS) – Power, Conflict, and Ideas program, Salgado reflects on her five-year journey at UBCO with a deep sense of gratitude—for the connections she’s built, the professors who’ve mentored her, and the personal growth she’s experienced.
A Campus that Feels Like Home
After spending time living in Ireland, Salgado knew she was drawn to “small town vibes.” UBCO offered the academic rigor of a globally recognized university with the intimacy and accessibility of a close-knit campus.
“I feel that it’s easier to get to know your profs and form connections. While adjusting to a new culture and climate was a challenge, I’ve found my people and my home here.”
That sense of connection became especially important as she transitioned from an undergraduate degree in History to graduate research that blends her passions for history, journalism, and political thought.
Finding Her Path Through Interdisciplinary Study
“I was debating history, journalism, political science… even creative writing!” Salgado laughs. “But IGS allowed me to combine all of these interests. I could bring in professors from different faculties to get different perspectives.”
Originally focused on the censorship and repression of journalism in Mexico during the Porfiriato (the authoritarian rule of Mexican President Porfirio Diaz from 1876-1911), her research has since expanded to explore the informal censorship of rock music in Mexico during the 1970s and 80s. Salgado investigates how youth pushed back against official silence through alternative reporting platforms like zines and independent publications.
“My passion for journalism has always been a driving force,” Salgado says. That passion took shape not only through her research, but also through hands-on experience: she spent three years at The Phoenix News, UBCO’s official student newspaper, eventually serving as Editor in Chief—a role she describes as “important” in shaping her academic and professional identity. She also completed an internship as a writer for The Latin American News Digest.
With support from the Irving K. Barber Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Salgado has undertaken research trips to Mexico and secured funding through graduate research grants and faculty awards. She’s also worked as a Teaching Assistant, further grounding her academic journey in mentorship and leadership.
“The biggest thing the faculty has given me is connections and networking,” Salgado says. “I’ve been able to expand my career in ways I never imagined.”
Mentorship That Made a Difference
Throughout her journey, mentorship has played a defining role. Salgado credits Dr. Jessica Stites-Mor—her undergraduate and now graduate supervisor—as someone who has shaped her both academically and personally.
“She inspired me to major in History, helped me gain confidence in my work, and supported me during some of the most stressful times,” Salgado says. “She continues to guide me at every step.”
She also praises professors like Dr. Catherine Higgs, Dr. Todd Campbell, and Dr. Thomas Heilke, who helped her navigate the often-daunting transition into graduate studies.
A Humbling (and Empowering) Experience
Graduate school hasn’t always been easy.
“People sometimes think UBCO is ‘easier’ because it’s smaller, but graduate school humbled me,” Salgado acknowledges. “These professors are incredibly smart and prepared. I’ve learned things I never thought I would.”
But from that challenge came growth—and clarity. Whether she pursues a career in education or continues to explore paths in journalism, editorial work, or publishing, she knows the skills and experience she’s gained will carry her forward.
Looking Ahead—with Joy
When asked about the future, she smiles: “I just want to be happy and at peace. I want to travel, I want to write… maybe even publish a historical fiction novel one day!”
Outside the classroom, she paints, lifts weights, and loses herself in books—yes, even The Hunger Games when she’s supposed to be reading Foucault. “While my degree is basically reading, it’s still my favorite thing to do,” she jokes.
Advice to Her Younger Self?
“Give yourself a break. Not everything has to be perfect the first time,” she says. “Perfection can be destructive, especially in grad school. It’s okay to step outside for a second—read a book, take a bath, hang out with friends.”
Through every chapter of her university life, Salgado has learned to lead with curiosity, resilience, and heart. And in doing so, she’s not just earned a degree—she’s built a life.