They say “never meet your heroes.”
But what about interviewing your hero — twice — before you’ve even left university?
Political Science Co-op student Arjun Ram has done exactly that: He interviewed Kyle Lowry for CBC Kids at a news conference when the Toronto Raptors legend announced his retirement on July 7.
But that wasn’t their first interview.
Seven years ago, Ram had a chance to pose a question to Lowry, also as part of CBC Kids News.
“It’s pretty surreal,” said Ram. “I grew up a diehard Raptors fan. When I was sent to the retirement press conference I didn’t even think I would get a question.”
And after seven years, “I didn’t think he would remember me,” Ram said. But Lowry did.
The interview was part of Ram’s work placement as an editorial assistant with CBC Kids as part of a co-op work term through the Faculty of Social Sciences.
“It feels kind of cool telling people that I’m an editorial assistant at CBC,” said Ram. “I feel pretty lucky to have it!”
And although Ram’s viral moment came from a sports story, that’s not his only beat. He’s covered everything from the Raptors and the Olympics to politics and global conflict.
That’s one of the main reasons he chose to study political science at McMaster.
“I ended up choosing political science just because I truly feel that it’s important to have an understanding of basic political affairs and theoretical political knowledge,” he said. “I’m very passionate about the foundations of politics. Politics is everything.”
Ram was helped through the co-op process by the Social Sciences Careers and Experiential Education team, with guidance from Karen Thorburn, Co-op and Internship Student Manager.
“I had a meeting with Karen last year in the summer when I got accepted into the co-op program and I told her that I wanted to pursue something relating to broadcasting,” said Ram.
“She was so encouraging with that. She’s such a sweet person and she’s always open to discussion, always open to hearing your needs and making sure that they’re taken care of.
“And I think the best thing about her is that she recognizes hard work, which is something that’s great in an educator.”
Ram isn’t the only McMaster Political Science student who has been on CBC’s screens recently: Mackenzie Barwell covered the Winter Olympics as a digital host.
“There must be something in the water at Mac!” said Ram. “You know, when you fill your water bottle, there must be something in there! Mackenzie is a McMaster icon and to even be mentioned alongside her is an honour.”
Both Ram and Barwell worked as digital hosts for McMaster Athletics and Recreation.
“The Ath and Rec team recognized my passion for sports and supported that passion,” said Ram.
Ram knows his newfound viral fame is just one stepping stone toward his dream career.
“Although I got this opportunity with CBC Kids and I feel super thankful, I know that I always have to look out for more opportunities.”