Have you met Peter Carter, Senior International Relations Coordinator in the Global Engagement unit? Spend a few minutes getting to know him better.
What is your first U of A memory?
Attending my uncle's convocation at the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium around 25 years ago. This remains the only U of A convocation that I have been to, despite being an alum myself ('11 BA). I missed out on attending my own convocation as I spent my final undergraduate year on a study abroad program in South Korea and moved directly to Japan for work after that.
What’s something your coworkers don’t know about you?
I've been an electronic music DJ for just over half of my life and have performed in clubs across Japan, South Korea and Canada — including headlining at U of A's own Dewey’s when I was an undergrad. My mixes available online have collectively been streamed by listeners from around the world for over 220,000 minutes.
What’s your favourite distraction?
Flow Arts! I took up learning contact poi (large juggling balls connected to small weighted handles by short ropes that you spin, roll and throw around your body in geometric patterns) to stay physically and mentally fit at the beginning of the pandemic, and I was instantly hooked by how it combines prop manipulation, movement arts and meditation. My collection has since grown to over 10 different types of flow props ranging from hula hoops to nunchaku strewn about my house that I pick up to practice whenever I have any free time.
If you were enrolling in one course, program or degree right now, what would it be?
I'm actually currently putting together an application for the MA in Communications and Technology (MACT) program, but if I was to enroll in a one-off course, I’d choose SUST 202 - Global Sustainable Development and the SDGs.
What’s a weird pet peeve you have?
Recently created or updated materials that do not adhere to U of A's current Brand Guidelines.
You can invite anyone — alive or dead, real or fictional — to dinner. Who would it be?
Is time travel covered in this hypothetical? If so, then I would like to invite my amazing two-year-old daughter from 40-years ahead in the future.
If you could see any live performance tomorrow, what would it be?
The Norwegian electronic music duo Röyksopp.
What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?
Don’t wait until your thirties to start actively practicing mindfulness and self-compassion.
What’s one thing you can’t live without?
My above-mentioned daughter; we’re inseparable.
What three words describe your U of A experience?
International, experiential, transformative.
About Peter
Peter Carter is the Senior International Relations Coordinator in the university's International's Global Engagement unit. In his role he provides tactical coordination and analysis for the design and implementation of strategies and initiatives that support the international goals of U of A with a focus on India. He also serves as the Secretaries for the President's India Advisory Council and Engage India: Association of Professors.