Katelynn Kowalchuk
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
When I started my undergraduate degree in 2015, I wasn’t sure which path I wanted to take. My interests were varied and I found it difficult to commit myself to just one discipline, so I decided to wait until my second year to settle on my major field. My decision became clearer after taking my first political science course. The discipline offered me the opportunity to explore my interests in tandem, including archival research, health policy, and urban design. By the time I began the fourth year of my degree, I knew that I wanted to pursue a PhD and dedicate my career to the advancement and expansion of the field.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
UBC’s dedication to innovation and transforming ideas into action is what originally drew me to the university. Before deciding to attend my hometown university for my undergraduate degree, I was interested in applying to UBC’s architecture and urbanism program. Though I ultimately didn’t pursue this degree, the idea of studying at UBC stayed with me. I felt that the university could offer the resources to thrive in my graduate studies and future career and provide a cohort of like-minded scholars engaging with new and emerging research areas.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
My department has demonstrable strength in areas related to my interests. While my focus is on the development and politics of mental healthcare, I maintain a secondary interest in urban politics and intergovernmental relations, which is an area of focus for faculty members in a variety of capacities. I was also attracted to the program due to its collegiality. I completed my master’s degree at UBC and decided to stay for my PhD in part due to the departmental culture. I spend significant time engaging with researchers outside of my subfield, and these relationships have prompted me to think about my own research from new perspectives.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
The best surprise has been learning about the beach culture! I hadn’t visited Vancouver before moving here, and I wasn’t aware that there nine beaches in the city. My family would spend a lot of the summer at our cabin in Saskatchewan, but having the waterfront five minutes from my front door in Vancouver is hard to beat.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
Much of my life has been dedicated to artistic pursuits. I was a competitive dancer for 18 years and played clarinet in the University of Regina’s wind ensemble. I was also privileged with the opportunity to perform with the Moscow Ballet in their annual Nutcracker performance while they toured through Saskatchewan. These experiences imbued me with steadfastness, perseverance, and an attention to detail that has served me well throughout my time in graduate school.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I spend a lot of time outdoors when the weather is nice (usually on the beach or wandering Pacific Spirit Park), and I also enjoy playing videogames and TTRPGs, knitting, and visiting my friends. We’ve had a weekly boardgame night for over a year – It’s a great way for us to wind down on Friday nights!
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Being a first-generation student can be challenging in ways that are difficult to articulate. Surround yourself with people who support you, remember why you started graduate school in the first place, and make sure to take time to do the things you enjoy!