In academia, it’s easy to get lost in awards, titles, and research papers, but the professors who leave a lasting impact are the ones who let their personality shine through.
Saira Bano is a political science professor at TRU, who specializes in international relations, specifically South Asia, China–U.S. relations, Middle Eastern politics, Asian politics, human rights and global security.
Bano’s curiosity extends beyond the classroom into how the world operates at a structural level. During a research fellowship in Washington, D.C., she was struck by the close relationship between academia and policymaking. Seeing how scholars move between universities and government roles gave her a deeper appreciation for how research can directly shape real-world decisions.
While her research examines some of the world’s most complex political issues, outside the classroom she enjoys much simpler things: nature, books and travel.
When Bano isn’t teaching or researching, she prefers spending her time outdoors. Hiking and kayaking are among her favourite activities, particularly during the summer. Her love for the outdoors has also shaped some of her favourite travel destinations, including Banff, Jasper and Alaska.
“Waterfalls are my favourite,” she said.
Travel is another passion. One cultural experience that stood out to her was a recent visit to Sri Lanka, where she enjoyed exploring local traditions, food and music. One dish she especially loved was hoppers, a bowl-shaped fermented rice pancake often served with egg.
“It looks beautiful and it’s really delicious,” she said.
Another destination still on Bano’s bucket list is Hawaii, a trip she had planned before the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I want to experience the music, the dancing and the beaches,” she said.
Outside of travel and nature, she is also an avid reader. While she reads widely in politics and international relations, her favourite novel is Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein.
“What I love about the book is the idea that power comes with responsibility,” Bano said. “The creator makes something but doesn’t take responsibility for it, and that creates consequences.”
Some of the political works that continue to inspire her include Thucydides’ The Peloponnesian War, Sun Tzu’s The Art of War and Kautilya’s Arthashastra.
“These books were written centuries ago, but they are still relevant today,” she said.
When it comes to grading papers, however, she admits she sometimes needs a little comfort food.
“Chocolate,” she said with a laugh. “And ice cream.”
When she wants to unwind, she enjoys watching television shows like The Big Bang Theory, especially for its humorous portrayal of academics.
“My favourite character is Sheldon,” she said.
Music also depends on her mood. When she’s feeling upbeat, she listens to artists like Ed Sheeran and Beyoncé, but on quieter days she prefers slower, more relaxing music.
In the classroom, she hopes students see her as approachable and empathetic.
She is also deeply reflective about personal growth. Looking back, Bano admits she once took things too seriously and placed unnecessary pressure on herself. Over time, she has learned to adopt a more relaxed perspective, recognizing that not everything needs to be internalized or taken personally.
That mindset now informs how she connects with students. She understands that many are navigating academic pressure alongside work and personal responsibilities, and she encourages them to step back when needed. For her, success is not just about performance, but about maintaining balance and perspective.
Despite the pressures of university life, she encourages students to enjoy the experience.
“University is a very important time of your life,” she said. “You are building friendships, perspectives and networks that will stay with you forever.”
At her core, Bano values balance. Whether through nature, reading or simply stepping away from stress, she prioritizes a more grounded approach to life. It’s a mindset she encourages in others, reminding students that while achievement matters, well-being and perspective matter just as much.
Her advice for students and for her younger self is simple: try not to stress over small things.
“Relax and don’t take things personally,” she said. “People are often dealing with their own challenges.”
And above all, she reminds students to enjoy their time in university.
“You won’t get this time back,” she said.
The Omega’s Professor Spotlight is a monthly series where we reintroduce you to some of the university’s most popular faculty members. If you would like to nominate a professor, lecturer, or sessional instructor for their own Professor Spotlight, you’re encouraged to email The Omega’s Editor-in-Chief, Robert McAlaster, at editor@theomega.news.