Duncan Murray
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
As an undergraduate student at the University of Prince Edward Island, I was fortunate to meet some great professors in a few different disciplines who taught fascinating seminar courses related to the history and philosophy of science and medicine. They encouraged me to follow my interests and, despite a background in science, make the switch to history. I owe a lot to their encouragement!
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
Several things came together to make the decision to study at UBC a fairly easy one. Above all, I felt the program was a great fit for the work I wanted to do. The mild winters and proximity to the ocean and the mountains, with all the opportunity for outdoor recreation they entail, certainly didn't hurt!
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
I was attracted to the program by faculty members in the history department who share my interests, as well as by the interdisciplinary Science and Technology Studies (STS) stream that UBC offers to its graduate students.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
The height of the trees in Pacific Spirit Park!
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I enjoy the stimulating and challenging discussions that take place in seminar rooms.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
The amazing faculty at the University of Prince Edward Island is what (or rather who) has best prepared me for my UBC graduate program.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
Nothing beats hiking and skiing. But if there are no mountains around, kicking a soccer ball with friends or reading a book with a strong cup of coffee in hand are worthy alternatives.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
I'm nobody to give advice (I've only just begun graduate school myself!), but I would say it's important to cultivate both humility and resilience as a graduate student. It can be painful to have your ideas proven wrong, but sharing your thoughts and having them challenged by other graduate students and faculty members is necessary for intellectual growth, however discomforting.
