Cynthia Lam
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I truly love learning. After I finished my undergraduate degree, I just wanted to keep going! I come from a health sciences background but I was really interested in learning about the use of technology to transform healthcare. When I discovered the graduate degree in Biomedical Engineering, I knew I had to do it!
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
UBC boasts amazing research labs, an inclusive community, and of course a beautiful campus. On top of this, I've never been further than 125km away from home. I wanted a chance to fly across the country to explore the world (and myself) a little more.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
Biomedical engineering is so interesting because it lays at the intersection of health and technology. I was especially drawn to the Engineers in Scrubs program that UBC offered, which gave me hands on experience with medical device prototyping.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
How lovely yet varied the weather was! Yes I had to buy an umbrella and rainboots for the rainy days but I could also go to the beach in February, and snowboard in March. It's awesome.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
I had the opportunity to have 4 co-op jobs during my undergrad. While not all the skills were transferrable, the soft skills definitely were!
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I've gotten very into pole exercise, bouldering, and I'm trying to get into calisthenics!
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Remember that this isn't just a time to learn about your field of interest; it's also such a crazy period of growth for yourself. Try new things, try the scary things, fail hard and fail fast so you can know yourself better.