Hometown: Halfmoon Bay, B.C.
Program: Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
What attracted you to your field?
I was first introduced to the field while tutoring in the special education classroom as a high school student. I was moved by the speech-language pathologist’s enthusiasm to advocate for communication as a universal human right. Her creativity enabled students with developmental disorders—such as cerebral palsy, Down syndrome and autism spectrum disorder—to become confident, competent communicators through alternative methods including individualized gestures and text-to-speech apps. She inspired me to enter this field and help others learn or rediscover the gift of communication, no matter their physical or cognitive challenges.
What is your favourite moment from your time at UBC?
My favourite moment was when almost 50 people showed up to my first dance class for UBC Recreation’s Free Week! I was filled with gratitude that so many students chose to spend their study breaks with me, forget about their stresses for an hour and share their passion for dance. Teaching for UBC Recreation during my time at UBC is one of my fondest memories, and I highly recommend becoming involved with campus clubs and organizations. Extracurricular involvement at UBC is a fabulous way to meet like-minded people and find your community on campus.
What is one piece of advice you have for students entering your program?
One piece of advice is to rediscover your joy of learning. As students, we’re often so focused on our grades that we can lose sight of the purpose of our learning—which is to become proficient in our future careers. If you care deeply about your learning, your grades will come naturally. Think about how you can apply the concepts of an assignment to a future patient or save the resources your professors provide you for when you begin your career. Once you start thinking like a clinician, rather than a student, you’ll become more invested in your learning and spend less time feeling anxious over your grades.
What’s next for you?
I recently moved back to my beautiful hometown of Halfmoon Bay to begin my career as a speech-language pathologist with the TIDES Rural/Remote Rehab Team. In my role, I provide short-term rehabilitation for adults living with neurological conditions such as stroke or acquired brain injuries. I plan to pursue my advanced competency in Videofluoroscopic Swallow Studies to better assess and manage dysphagia (swallowing difficulties) in the adult patients I work with. I am passionate about helping people with communication and swallowing disorders lead fulfilling lives and I look forward to a life-long career in this rewarding field.