Is a York grad smarter than a fifth-grader?

York University alumna Sandra Zichermann will put her two degrees to the test as a contestant on the TV show “Are You Smarter than a Canadian 5th Grader?” tomorrow evening.

Zichermann, a course director in the sociology program at Wilfrid Laurier University, has two degrees from York: a 2001 BA (Honours) in political science and communication studies and a 2003 MA in communication and culture. She is currently pursuing her PhD in sociology and equity studies at the University of Toronto’s Ontario Institute for Studies in Education.

Right: Zichermann in action on the    
pre-taped show (the outcome    
is a closely guarded secret)    

According to the show‘s representatives, Zichermann was selected as a contestant from a pool of thousands who want to prove they are in fact smarter than a 10-year-old. With the help of seven young classmates, she will be asked questions based on a grade school curriculum for a chance to win the $1-million top prize.

The episode airs tomorrow at 9pm on Global Television.