Mariam Omotosho
What are your main responsibilities or activities in your current position?
I work as a Policy and Program Analyst in the Policy, Programs, and Regulation Branch, Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure. My primary responsibility is to develop and evaluate legislation, regulations, programs, and policies to facilitate sustainable transportation, improved infrastructure, and enhanced road safety across the province.
How does your current work relate to your graduate degree?
I have always had a strong interest in research and policy development. In fact, my interest influenced my decision to enroll in a research-based master's program at UBC. Through my graduate program, I learned how to use research and data to tell clear and meaningful stories, identify patterns in different stories, and convey potential solutions to diverse categories of audiences, adopting an audience-centered approach. I also had the opportunity to become part of a strong network which has proved very useful in navigating my experiences as a young professional.
What do you like and what do you find challenging about your current position?
Considering my background which is in Law, working with subject matter experts across other fields such as transportation, infrastructure, and emergency management has been enlightening. I enjoy the daily exposure to new ideas/knowledge.
Is your current career path as you originally intended?
I have always been interested in doing work that matters. My current role helps me to explore my love for research and writing, while simultaneously helping decision-makers design regulations, policies, and programs which affect our daily lives.
What motivated you to pursue graduate work at UBC?
The strong academic community and wide range of resources. UBC provides extensive support for its students to facilitate career and personal development. As an international student, I was able to navigate the Canadian job market successfully through the resources provided by the UBC School of Graduate Studies.
What did you enjoy the most about your time as a graduate student at UBC?
My professors! I had fantastic professors. They were extremely supportive and helped me every step of the way.
How did the graduate degree at UBC help you achieve your career and/or personal development goals?
My graduate program started during the COVID-19 pandemic. At first, I considered a deferral because of the novelty of remote learning, particularly for a research-based master's program.
What key things did you do, or what attitudes or approaches did you have, that contributed to your success?
Studying at UBC set me up for success. I had access to so many resources which helped my personal and career development goals. In addition to maximizing available resources and opportunities, I tried to be consistent and deliberate about my choices.
What is your best piece of advice for current graduate students preparing for their future careers?
Maximize the wealth of resources available at the UBC graduate school, explore, and take a chance on yourself!
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