Cassandra Andrew
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
While pursuing my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, I came to recognize I most loved wildlife conservation medicine and wildlife population health work and realized there are many human-based dimensions that impact our ability to carry out this work. I came across the concepts of "One Health" and planetary health and was immediately drawn to these paradigms which focus on the interdependence of the health and wellbeing of all species that share our planet — animal, plant and human alike. This led me to want to pursue further education in population level health (including epidemiology). Wanting to get out of the veterinary "echo chamber", work in an interdisciplinary setting and gain skills related to social sciences, I decided to pursue my graduate studies in population and public health in a human medicine department (at UBC!).
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I was drawn to studying at UBC for a number of reasons. Of course, it is a highly renowned institution, and it is geographically located in a place that made sense for me at this time in my life as I travel back and forth between my main home in Canada's north and Vancouver. However, I primarily came to UBC to work with Dr. Chelsea Himsworth, an academic and governmental leader in my field of interest.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
I am most interested in learning the research skills and ideologies that exist within human population health, including qualitative research, which are often not primary research techniques used in the veterinary/animal health field. I feel that the skills I have and will continue to learn at UBC's School of Population and Public Health will allow me to be a much more well-rounded interdisciplinary researcher into the future.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
Pacific Spirit Regional Park is my favourite place in Vancouver, in addition to the views from NW Marine Drive. I also love the access to many of the cafe's and restaurants here (shoutout to Nuba and 49th Parallel Coffee and Lucky's Donuts) and fun shows like the East Van Panto.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I am most looking forward to the ways my research is and has been evolving. Sometimes things don't go as you expect them to, but there are many things to learn throughout this process, and sometimes the skills you develop along the way are more interesting and helpful than you even expected.
What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) in your future career?
At the moment, I feel like I have spread my skillset net quite wide. I am thankful for this, but hope I will be able to continue to hone and perfect these skills over time in my future career.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
I think that my previous academic and work experiences as a clinical veterinarian have allowed me to develop good (though always improving!) time management skills, communication skills and the ability to triage tasks. I find having worked outside of academia and in a medical profession has helped give me perspective on what to be stressed about, what needs my immediate attention and what to let go of.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I like yoga, spin classes and walking or hiking in the forest with or without my husky cross pup. I have also recently taken up mountain biking which is both terrifying and exhilarating! On the opposite side, I have also been getting into sewing.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
My policy throughout my long academic career has always been to put your mental and physical health first. There will be times when this seems impossible, so even the small things count. The work will always be there, and you matter. Don't put up with toxic work expectations, and know you're not alone.
