Hometown: Vancouver, BC
Program: Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science
What attracted you to your field?
I first heard about the Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science program from a friend during my first year. She suggested the program to me as I had told her about my interests in medicine, health and science. That day, I remember going home, looking through the program website and being instantly attracted to what the program had to offer. What really caught my eye was the opportunity to study topics such as hematology, medical microbiology, toxicology and clinical chemistry. For me, this program solidified my interest in working in a clinical lab environment and it was through this program that I was able to find my next endeavor – clinical genetics!
In 10 years, what UBC moment will you still be talking about?
This year, my classmates and I went on a grad trip to Palm Springs during reading week. To me, that was the culmination of our time together in the BMLSc program. Without them and without the support from the amazing professors and instructors in the program, it would not have been as phenomenal of an experience as it was.
What’s next for you?
This September, I’ll be attending the Clinical Genetics Technology Program at BCIT to become a clinical genetics technologist.
As you look ahead, what (or who) inspires you?
Definitely my mom. At only 11-years-old, my mom, along with the rest of her family, risked their lives to flee Vietnam by boat after the fall of Saigon as a result of the Vietnam War. On the boat, she faced many obstacles including encounters with pirates and starvation. Growing up and listening to my mother’s stories of her journey out of Vietnam to Canada, her bravery and determination, never cease to amaze me.
Name one thing on your bucket list.
To go volunteering abroad!