Hometown: Campbell River, British Columbia
Program: Medical Genetics
Year in Program: 4
What inspired you to pursue your program?
I completed a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from the University of Victoria, and through this program, I pursued a 16-month research internship. It was a great experience as I was able to apply the laboratory skills I gained throughout my education in a practical environment. The internship was across two terms, eight months in a government lab in the South Island of New Zealand and then eight months at UBC’s Kobor Lab.
Upon completing my undergraduate internship program, I worked as a technician at the Kobor Lab for a year before deciding whether or not I wanted to pursue a PhD. Through that experience, I knew that I wanted to take responsibility of my own research projects and learn big data analysis. I really would not have found this path if it wasn’t for Dr. Michael Kobor, who provided me with the time and opportunities to grow and find my own passion, for which I am very thankful.
What are you looking forward to most this upcoming year?
This year is one of the most exciting times of my life. I will be defending my PhD in mid-September and will be graduating this November. I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience at UBC, as I have had incredible opportunities to perform exciting research, have made amazing friends, and have had the chance to work with some incredible collaborators/mentors.
I recently accepted a position with the health authority in Victoria and am excited to pursue a career back on Vancouver Island where I will be closer to my friends and family. I look forward to applying the skills in data analysis and statistical programming that I’ve gained to ultimately improve the quality of patient care for British Columbians.
Best piece of advice
My advice for future students would be to take as many opportunities to grow as possible because it will help you learn about yourself and ultimately help you direct your future. If there is something that interests you outside of your current realm, go and ask to volunteer in that area and find out if it is something you want to explore further.
Throughout my PhD, I chose to seek out opportunities beyond my research. I volunteered for things like Let’s Talk Science and the ECOSCOPE statistical programming workshops. I was also a teacher’s assistant for a few different undergraduate science courses. UBC has such a rich learning environment, and the opportunities are there for your taking to not only learn new things but also to develop your professional network.
First job
My first job was at my dad’s company when I was 13 years-old. I worked in the packaging warehouse helping make ice gel packs for 0.25 cents a piece on the weekends. I also had a job delivering poster advertisements for the local theatre in Campbell River. My mom got me the job as she was their bookkeeper at the time and they paid $1 for every poster delivered, not bad!
What’s next on your BC bucket list?
Besides moving to Victoria to dive into my career and be closer to my family, I am very much looking forward to exploring Vancouver Island more. There are so many beautiful spots that I have not had a chance to check out. I’m specifically excited about eventually hiking the West Coast Trail and Juan de Fuca Trail.