Hooman Esfandiari
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
Improving people's quality of life and observing the first-hand impact of my work in the real world has been my strongest motivations in graduate school. This, along with my deep passion for learning and being in an interdisciplinary environment where I can be exposed to new ideas, motivated me to pursue a graduate degree in Biomedical Engineering.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I first visited UBC back in 2013 for a research project, when I was doing my master's at the University of Calgary. Back then, I had the opportunity to visiting a few labs in my research field and have conversations with several professors. The creative atmosphere in the Biomedical Engineering program really attracted me and I decided to move to Vancouver for a PhD program. UBC's international reputation, its gorgeous campus and the astonishing scenery of Vancouver were also important factors in my decision.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
The close link between engineers and clinicians is a unique opportunity that we have in the Biomedical Engineering program. The lab that I work at is immediately adjacent to real operating rooms where actual surgeries are performed on a daily basis! This allows for constant communication between engineers, clinicians and patients (the end users).
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
For a big and crowded city like Vancouver, I was really amazed by how friendly the people are! Also, it didn't take me too long to realize why the local football (soccer!) club is called Whitecaps after my first hike up Grouse Mt and seeing the amazing mountaintops right in the city's backyard!
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I play the piano and ukulele in my free time. Volleyball is another great passion of mine. I'm also a civil aviation enthusiast.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Be open and accept new challenges. The grad life experience and the soft skills you acquire are as important as the technical knowledge you learn over the course of your program.
