Claire Valeria Hein-Salvi
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I decided to pursue a graduate degree as I want to research and improve the landscape of social media and make it a safer environment for its users using empirically-based ideas. I want to help adolescents feel empowered when using social media, as it is a critical period for self-perception development. Pursuing a graduate degree was the best way for me to continue my interest and passion for making adolescents' everyday online experience a positive one.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
Having already been a student at UBC, deciding to continue graduate-level education here was an easy one. During my undergraduate degree, I became embedded in UBC's community. UBC and its high-calibre professors helped shape who I am today. I want to continue attending an institution that has a strong emphasis on research that addresses contemporary issues. UBC’s interdisciplinary approach offers a unique opportunity to explore the complex dynamics between social media usage and adolescent development. I know that this world-class and academic environment will enhance my understanding of developmental psychology and empower me to contribute to meaningful solutions in this critical area of study.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
The Human Development, Learning, and Culture program is exceptional for its student-centred and interdisciplinary approach. I appreciate the focus that my program has on weaving together research and practice so that theoretical models have an application to real-world issues. I value its dual emphasis on providing a comprehensive understanding of human development through instruction by distinguished leaders in the field, while simultaneously encouraging the cultivation of one's own pedagogical skills.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
The best thing about life in Vancouver is its natural beauty, characterized by a unique interplay of mountains, ocean and verdant green spaces that can be seen from almost every angle of UBC's campus! Growing up in Vancouver and having lived in the United States, Germany and Spain, I recognize how lucky we are to live in such a beautiful and multicultural place. I think it is truly one of the best cities in the world.
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 getting to know the knowledgeable staff and professors. I cannot wait to learn more from them and to further develop my own teaching and research skills.
What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) in your future career?
The fields of human development and social media are rapidly evolving, presenting the challenge of staying abreast of new research, technologies and methodologies, especially with the onset of artificial intelligence. I think the biggest challenge will be catching research up to the ever-evolving landscape of social media.
How do you feel your program is preparing you for those challenges?
The emphasis on contemporary and rigorous research methods as well as data analysis in the Human Development, Learning, and Culture program is preparing my ability to stay current with evolving trends in the field. This foundation will allow me to critically evaluate new findings and incorporate them into my work.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
Graduating with a BA in Psychology has well prepared me for further diving into studying human development, learning and culture. Taking a gap year and teaching English to students with refugee status in Berlin, Germany has also helped me develop my pedagogical skills and apply my experiences to the seminars that are offered in the Human Development, Learning, and Culture (HDLC) program. I look forward to refining my pedagogical skills through the seminars that the HDLC program offers.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I am a competitive artistic swimmer (formerly known as synchronized swimming), and I swim for UBC's Artistic Swimming team! When I am not at the pool, I enjoy water colour painting.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
As a new graduate student myself, my advice would be to get involved in your program and department. I find that connecting to other students, faculty and staff has been essential in fostering a sense of community and for helping me navigate my way through research and my degree.
