Esther Ocheni

 
First Nations Education Steering Committee
Senior Policy Analyst
Abuja, Nigeria
Vancouver, Canada
Faculty of Arts
2021
 

What are your main responsibilities or activities in your current position?

I conduct research into BC K-12 to post-secondary education policies and laws, its on-the-ground impacts on First Nations across BC, and make policy recommendations for advocacy.

How does your current work relate to your graduate degree?

I find that the writing (such as policy briefs and articles), public speaking (presentations and answering questions) and critical thinking and analysis I learned during my program have been useful on nearly a daily basis.

What motivated you to pursue graduate work at UBC?

The strong reputation of the university was attractive.

What did you enjoy the most about your time as a graduate student at UBC?

The stunning campus and the international student body.

How did the graduate degree at UBC help you achieve your career and/or personal development goals?

As an international student, the degree gave a network of supportive professionals who became my friends and I learned professional skills that I often use at my job.

What key things did you do, or what attitudes or approaches did you have, that contributed to your success?

Open mindedness and curiosity go a long way in anything.

What is your best piece of advice for current graduate students preparing for their future careers?

Be as openminded, curious and teachable as you can be.

 

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