Brittany Pousett
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
Having worked as a prosthetist providing clinical care to people with limb loss for over a decade, I witnessed the challenges that many people with limb loss (as well as their health care providers) face when accessing/providing life-long rehabilitation services. During this time, I had the opportunity to lead our clinic's research team as we sought to develop evidence to inform the clinical challenges we faced. I absolutely loved this aspect of my work! Pursuing a graduate degree allows me to develop the expertise and experience I need to continue working in this field.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
UBC is a fantastic institution with a diverse array of opportunities. Limb loss research is a unique field, and UBC has researchers with expertise in this area. In addition, I have lived in the Lower Mainland all of my life and wanted to pursue a graduate degree while staying closely connected to my community of family and friends.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
G.F. Strong Rehabilitation Centre's Rehab Research Program fosters continual collaboration between numerous rehabilitation research professionals and trainees. In addition, it allows me to pursue limb loss research within BC's primary rehabilitation hospital, which helps to ensure the outputs are valuable to people with limb loss and their health care providers. Dr. William Miller is one of Canada's most experienced limb loss researchers, and I welcomed the opportunity to learn from him.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
Being from the Lower Mainland, I was already well acquainted with the wonderful plethora of year-round outdoor activities always available. However, one of the best surprises was how many opportunities I have had to get to know people from all over the world studying a vast range of unique topics. It has been wonderful to get to learn from others and expand my perspectives.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
I cannot imagine doing this research without a strong foundation in clinical practice. Every day I draw both motivation and insight from the clinical encounters I have had over the years. I hope that this experience leads my research to be very valuable to the community I seek to serve.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
When not studying, I am with my husband and children doing a wide range of outdoor activities including paddleboarding, hiking, biking, swimming, camping, skiing, snowboarding and gardening!
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
You cannot do it alone! It is critical to build a community that can support you throughout your journey. Also, one of the best things I have done (since my undergraduate studies) is to take one day off every week where I do not do any work. It is a gift to know in the intense seasons of study that a rest is coming soon! I take these days to refresh my soul so that I can show up all of the other days ready to go!
