Jiao Ji
Museum Education/Science Education
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I hope to teach in a university and obtaining a doctoral degree is a requirement.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
Museums in Vancouver have done an outstanding job in integrating with universities and their communities. The Faculty of Education at UBC has also devoted many intellectual and practical contributions to the museum education field within a cultural perspective. I believe that studying at UBC will provide a meaningful and impressive experience.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
The best surprise for me was definitely the rain! I lived in Beijing for seven years where there is a lack of rain and water. I missed rain so much in those seven years. When I arrived in Vancouver, the rain seemed to be an ever-present part of life. I was quite happy to experience the rain when I first moved here, but then I realized it rains more in Vancouver than I ever wanted!
What do you hope to accomplish with your research?
I hope my research can provide some insights in establishing a culture-based training system for promoting the Chinese museum educators' professionalization.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Especially for new international graduate students, there are many problems that can arise like language barriers, insurance issues, course pressures, and teacher and student relationships. The most important thing to remember is that we are not alone. If you have an issue, try to talk with somebody, try to reach out, and try to understand that "we are comfortable that we are uncomfortable" (cited from one of my course instructors).