Jen Edgecombe
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
My career choices were limited with a Bachelor of Science degree. I was at a stage in my life when I was ready for career advancement. The MRSc program offered me the credentials I needed and an opportunity to conduct original research.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
The MRSc program at UBC can be done completely online. Working full time and being a mom to two little girls, I didn’t want to travel for school. The program at UBC does not have set class times so I could choose the times in my day/week that work best for me to learn.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
The MRSc program was attractive to me because it is online and because I got to focus my projects and research on my work environment. This benefitted my clients and colleagues. That was my favorite aspect of the MRSc program.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
I didn’t spend any time at UBC or in Vancouver for this degree. My biggest surprise was how well the online learning platform worked for me! I still felt connected to the other learners and there is a sense of community.
The MRSc program offered me the credentials I needed and an opportunity to conduct original research.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
Living in rural British Columbia, I have witnessed inequitable access to healthcare resources in my community. I used the MRSc program to conduct a study to better understand the experience of people accessing healthcare across the interior of BC. Conducting this research has been incredible. I have enjoyed every minute of it!
What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) in your future career?
I think that often in large healthcare organizations, it can be challenging to implement programs or processes to improve efficiencies and effectiveness of service delivery. This is an ongoing challenge in my career.
How do you feel your program is preparing you for those challenges?
The MRSc program explores every aspect of rehabilitation. I used many of the projects in the courses to address the challenges in my practice. I feel more prepared now to inform change in my clinical setting to create a better rehab experience for my clients.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
Being a full time working mom, my life has routine. This served me well during the program because I was able to set aside chunks of time in my week to complete projects and reading. Scheduling the time for school is the key to successful online learning.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I love to run, do yoga, snowboard and spend time with my family and friends.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
I was scared to go to grad school and waited years to start. Within weeks of starting, I wondered why I waited so long. My advice to others is to just do it. Don’t wait. It’s more manageable than you think!
