Emmanuel Kwarah
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I got to a time in my teaching career when I was ready for career advancement. I realized pursuing an M.Ed program would help me gain more knowledge and expertise in the teaching field.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
UBC is a world-class University being ranked among the top 50 universities in the world. The multicultural nature of UBC and the rich academic credentials UBC offers for my social and professional development were among the reasons I chose to study at UBC.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
There is this particular course in my department (Education, Curriculum and Pedagogy) called directed study. It is this course that attracted me to UBC because it provides students with independence and the initiative to develop a focused reading program under professional supervision. This course allows students to pursue a line of study which is not available in the regular courses or seminars at UBC.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
I was surprised to see everyone being welcoming and accommodating. UBC Vancouver campus is beautiful and amazing.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I always enjoyed group discussions during class hours. These were the times I got to learn from classmates and also share my experience. I also enjoyed doing group assignments with classmates.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
Before graduate school, I was the founder and facilitator of a group of science teachers called " Science Teachers for Rural Areas", Ghana. I traveled to marginalized communities in my school district to organize workshops and teach outreach programs for untrained Science teachers. These workshops were meant to offer pedagogical strategies and ways teachers could improvise science teaching and learning materials using local resources available in their environment in place of sophisticated science equipment which is usually not available for them or too expensive to purchase. My experiences and connections with diverse teachers helped me garner more knowledge and expertise in the teaching field. These activities prepared me to advance my knowledge and expertise in graduate school.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I like to listen to music and talk to family and friends back home.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
UBC has diverse resources to aid you to succeed in your graduate program so don't hesitate to make good use of them. Attend conferences, workshops, career fairs, and other UBC events to socialize and make connections. Finally, you may feel confused and stressed at a certain point in your graduate journey, but be kind to yourself and treat yourself well, for you are more than test scores.
