Asad Hasan
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
During the first year of my undergraduate degree, I began volunteering at a lab that, at the time, was conducting experimental evolution studies in fruit flies, through which I learned a lot about the fundamentals of evolution and academia. I really enjoyed the ability of evolutionary biologists to tackle the big "why" questions in biology. Why is it that individuals are so variable? Why is it that males and females are typically dimorphic? Why are some species long-lived and others not? My experience at the above lab was intellectually stimulating, and with the guidance of a wonderful postdoc and other lab members, I decided to pursue a graduate degree in the field.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I decided to study at UBC because I was keen to work with my supervisor, Mike, and to experience the west coast. Mike has done a lot of really fundamental work in theoretical population genetics, and has been an exceptional mentor. I also had friends from Vancouver that encouraged me to be more adventurous and gave me lots of helpful advice, and the move would have been a much more difficult decision without their help. My family was also very supportive and I couldn't have moved without their help.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
The evolution cluster at UBC Zoology is world renowned, and filled with exceptional academics who are also very collegial. There is a really nice culture here, where we have various weekly discussion groups, seminars, and social events throughout the year. It's a real blessing.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
This may be a controversial take, but the rain is not nearly as bad as I had expected prior to moving here. The mountains are also surprisingly accessible.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I enjoy the process of science. It is fun being able to formulate research questions and eventually answer them. While it is sometimes the case that you do not end up anywhere near where you began, that can be thrilling! It can also be stressful.
What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) in your future career?
I expect the biggest challenges in my future career to be similar to those affecting other Canadians. Unemployment rates are high, and we're experiencing a housing crisis. As I look for postdoctoral opportunities, our neighbours, the US, also look like a less and less welcoming destination.
How do you feel your program is preparing you for those challenges?
My program obviously will not be able to address all the above challenges, but I have received so much guidance regarding what to look for in a postdoctoral fellowship, and I think my time at UBC Zoology has helped me develop into a well-rounded candidate.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
Although my experience at UBC Zoology has been influenced by all the past experiences in my life, the most notable one would be my academic, social, and extracurricular experiences during my undergraduate at UofT.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I like to lift weights, run, swim, read, watch television/movies, and travel to new places.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
My advice would be to try not to compare yourself to others. You will often find exceptional people in academia, particularly here at UBC, and impostor syndrome runs rampant among graduate students. Instead, focus on carving out your own path and seeing where that takes you. Comparison is the thief of joy!
