Chinenye Eze
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I have always wanted to teach. Nothing fills me with more joy that impacting knowledge. I believe it is one of the most significant ways to influence people positively. I knew I needed a master's and doctoral degree to do so. This influenced my graduate degree journey. Also, I got the opportunity to work as a teaching assistant for some months in Nigeria. I was immersed in the research, teaching and mentorship life of the university. I knew this is what I would want to continue with as a career path.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I was first drawn to UBC because I wanted to be supervised by and learn from a professor at the Peter A. Allard School of Law who specialized in bioethics and health law. I had done a master's degree in Nigeria but could not find a professor who specialized in intellectual property and its intersection with ethics and health issues. UBC offered me the opportunity to do the research I wanted and also funded it. I applied for a PhD after my master's Degree because I was encouraged and motivated by the out-of-the-box thinking of my professors in intellectual property classes. Also, some of the theoretical and methodology classes encouraged a broader view of law than I was used to.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
The Peter A. Allard School of Law offers a range of opportunities for research, practical law and student activities. The law clinics, the graduate research expressions and activities helps one have a balanced graduate experience.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
The beauty of UBC and Vancouver as a city. I often say that UBC feels like a city inside Vancouver, from housing, to faculties, to work opportunities and to beautiful sites, museums, beaches, etc. I literally feel like I have two experiences in one with UBC and Vancouver.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I am looking forward to my empirical research after getting my PhD candidacy. I will be gathering data from medical researchers in Nigeria. It feels challenging, but I am anticipating the collaboration and what my findings will be. I am also looking forward to writing stories of my findings.
What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) in your future career?
I think it will be navigating practicing as a lawyer and teaching. I am not sure how the two fit or if they fit, but I want to see how that plays out.
How do you feel your program is preparing you for those challenges?
There is a lot of information and webinars. My supervisor and the faculty are very open and available for career advising and helping students navigate their choices.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
I think my tendency to think outside the box has helped. I've also had a love for research and writing for a long time. Most of it was creative writing at first in secondary school. However, during law school and law practice it was more analytical, such as reading in-between the lines, finding the gaps, arguing for a different approach, etc.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I love to meet up with friends catch up, chat and laugh over nothing serious. I have the expensive habit of window shopping. Just going round shops in a mall and trying to convince myself that I won't buy; I'll just look. It rarely works. I love a good K-drama (preferably a romcom); it's relaxing for me. I also love a good book (fiction, romance and a sprinkle of comedy are preferable).
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
I would say make the most of your years. Get involved in graduate leadership, clubs, make friends, visit the rose garden and the museums, take pictures and join faculty activities. It is so easy to be overwhelmed with school, work and sometimes family responsibilities that the graduate years can pass you by. If you did that during the undergrad years, stop and smell the flowers during your grad years. Create amazing memories. Make the effort. It's worth it.
