Christopher Cheung
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
To specialize in something for employment.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I grew up in Vancouver and love the city, so I couldn't bear to leave. Plus, UBC is a good school! And I studied there during my undergrad.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
The small class sizes and workshop-style learning.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
How personable instructors were, and how they and other students shared their passions for their research interests.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
Doing cool projects! And also being mandated to enroll in courses outside of journalism in a field in which we're interested.
What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) in your future career?
News media is changing so fast and the jobs that are out there are contractual. I really want stability and to stay in my field.
How do you feel your program is preparing you for those challenges?
No one knows what the future of media holds, not even our profs, but they told us to have a wide set of skills to be ready for whatever comes our way. And that has helped me greatly.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
I think the most important thing is to love what you're doing. It might happen when you're younger; it might not. But it's so important to actually care and be curious because that will naturally drive you to learn and excel.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
Explore neighborhoods, street photography, look for good meals under $10, and watch movies.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Don't be a passive student. Get to know your profs, get to know their research, get involved in the community of whatever you are studying.
