Ehsanur Rahman
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
My inspiration for studying engineering came from a keen interest in Applied Science and my long-cherished dream of a career focusing on innovative ideas and technology-based entrepreneurship. During my undergraduate study, I planned to pursue a career through which I can make a difference and do something innovative to put a positive impact on my society. I think that a research-intensive graduate study would be a perfect option for me to gather the skills and expertise that I need to fulfill my career aspiration.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I decided to pursue my PhD in a renowned university like the University of British Columbia, as here I have got the opportunity to do state-of-the-art research in my field of interest. At UBC, I am constantly interacting with world-class researchers who are changing the world through their innovative ideas and leadership skills. It has helped me grow as a researcher and further develop my leadership skills. I hope to contribute something new to my field of research, directly or indirectly that will facilitate the community I belong to.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
I specifically chose to pursue my PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of British Columbia as it has offered me a perfect combination of state-of-the-art research facilities and distinguished research faculties. More precisely, the resources available at UBC for experimental and computational research in my field of interest and collaboration with world-class researchers all around the world have provided me with a unique opportunity to excel here as a researcher and contribute to the scientific society.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
One of my reasons to choose UBC for the higher study was its stunning campus. Lying on the coast of the Pacific Ocean and surrounded by the beautiful forests, this campus is like a piece of heaven to me. The natural beauty of the UBC campus combined with friendly people has made it a true place of mind. Before coming to Canada, I heard that the winter here is quite long and freezing cold in most of the places and everyday life is quite boring and monotonous during the winter. However, I was quite surprised to find out that this isn't the case in Vancouver. I feel really lucky to live in a cosmopolitan city like Vancouver surrounded by natural beauty. There are a lot of things to do and a lot of places to visit in Vancouver. I really like the downtown area where you can taste the multinational cuisines. The mesmerizing view of the sunset from numerous beaches in Vancouver and the incredible trails to hike in Squamish are some of the things that I will remember for my lifetime. I have made so many friends here from different parts of the world. I am really enjoying my life in Vancouver.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
I think the research experience of my Bachelor’s and Master’s degree and the professional experience that I have gathered from my past career in academia have helped me most to prepare for the PhD program that I am pursuing in UBC. My previous research experience has enhanced my analytical ability and intellectual integrity. Through my professional career experience, I have learned both teamwork and personal management skills like diligence, sincerity, honesty, and punctuality which have helped me to adapt to the cooperative environment of the graduate level research in UBC.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I usually go for sightseeing, listen to music or hang out with friends when I get some free time to spend.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
My only suggestion for the new graduate students is to enjoy the graduate life in UBC to the fullest. Your stay in this beautiful campus is going to be one of the best parts of your life and a stepping stone on the way to your future career aspiration.