Graeme Francolini
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I've always had an interest in the STEM fields, a love of learning, and enjoyed working with my hands. Pursuing a graduate degree is something that combined all of these things and has allowed me to focus those interests into my research. Additionally, it has allowed me to gain dig further into the field of Materials Science, where something happening on a microscopic scale can have big impacts in the macroscopic scale.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
UBC is a university that I had heard about even before I started my undergraduate degree, but I didn't truly look at it until I started my graduate studies. The breath of the programs offered at the university and the quality of research that is going on here really caught my interest. I also loved the availability of green nature spaces all over the campus. The weather letting me play rugby year round also helped.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
It was a mixture of things that attracted me to my program. My PhD supervisor, Dr. Ben Britton, and his research was one of the first things that caught my attention. After that and learning more about the program I loved the support the department provided for its students and the highly collaborative nature of the department, both among people and the areas of Materials (chemistry, physics, biology, engineering).
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
I'm not sure I can name a single best surprise I've had since coming to Vancouver. The biggest surprise to me was the size of UBC. I always heard from friends who went here how big the campus was, but seeing it in person for the first time blew me away. I was also pleasantly surprised by how collaborative and accepting the university is with the Indigenous people.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
I started my undergraduate studies in chemistry and physics, with a focus on solid state. I think this gave me a strong understanding of the underlying fundamentals for Materials Science and Engineering. I then did my masters in Materials Science which let me get hands-on experience in my current area of research. I also had the opportunity to do additional research in my undergrad and my masters which gave me experience in collaborative research and furthered my learning.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
To properly relax I tend to play video games. It lets me enjoy time with my long distance friends or to immerse myself in a good story while being able to interact and do things. Otherwise, I play on the university's varsity rugby team. It gives me a fun was to be active and relive stress while also being a part of a community.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Make sure to explore campus a bit and take some breaks while working on your studies. Everyone needs to get their work done but keeping yourself sane and healthy is important.
