Shelby Marozoff
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I previously completed a master’s degree and found, after a few years of working, that there were many skills that I still wanted to develop and many questions that I wanted to examine. I decided to pursue a PhD to gain the skills required to lead my own research projects in the future.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
UBC has a strong reputation for research excellence, and I believe that having my graduate degree from UBC will help me in my career afterwards. There are also a number of awards and fellowships which are available to graduate students throughout their degrees. Finally, many of the academics that I admire are at UBC.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
The School of Population and Public Health (SPPH) provides training and supports research in a variety of topics, including biostatistics, epidemiology, occupational health and safety, and health policy, among others. I was attracted by this wide range of research and coursework in SPPH and the collaborative network that results for trainees.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
It’s great how bikeable Vancouver is. It’s often easier and more enjoyable to bike than to drive and the walking/biking paths along the seawall are beautiful!
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
My MSc degree in epidemiology from the University of Alberta was immensely helpful in preparing me from my PhD program. Not only did my MSc degree provide me with foundational public health knowledge, but from it I further developed my time-management skills, learned how to conduct a large research project from start to finish, improved critical thinking abilities, and worked collaboratively with other graduate students and professors.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I like to get outside and run or bike when the weather cooperates. During the rainier parts of the year, I enjoy sewing and reading fiction.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Finding the right supervisor is important as this is one of the most important relationships you’ll have for the duration of your degree and even afterwards while setting up your career. Also, aiming for balance during a graduate degree will make the experience more enjoyable. It’s easy for school to take over your life and spending time with family and friends, and pursuing your hobbies is valuable.