Sebastian Zgirski

Sebastian was born to Polish immigrants, his parents having fled Poland as political and economic refugees in the 80s and 90s in order to escape the collapsing communist regime. As a child, Sebastian learned to speak Polish and was heavily influenced by his parents' status as immigrants, experiencing financial hardships, biculturalism, and isolation, while also developing a passion for learning about the world. He became fascinated with world history and geography and any field of study through which he could marvel at the diversity of life on earth. Sebastian attended Western as a first-generation college student, pursuing degrees in French and anthropology. Upon graduation, he hoped to become a language teacher for the Peace Corps, and later earn his Ph.D. in anthropology. Outside of class, Sebastian enjoyed listening to music, swimming, drinking earl grey tea, watching films, and of course taking every opportunity to go on an adventure, whether it be hiking, exploring Bellingham, or studying French in Canada.