Tara Rodas
Tara was one of four UBC finalists in the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) Storytellers challenge 2016. Each year this competition asks students to show Canadians how social sciences and humanities research is affecting our lives, our world and our future for the better.
Instructor Implemented Positive Behaviour Support in a Fitness Program for Adolescents and Adults with Autism
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I decided to pursue graduate study in the Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology and Special Education at UBC in the Autism and Developmental Disorders concentration as part of the requirement for becoming a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) and also because it is integral to my professional development and building my capacity to serve the community I work in. What I love about this field is that everything I learn in school is directly applied in the field. I have used this specific knowledge to improve the quality of life for my clients, and there is nothing more reinforcing than witnessing these improvements, watching children, teens, and adults develop skills and do things other people doubted they could ever do. While I have my undergraduate degree in Applied Behaviour Analysis-Autism, it is important for me to continue my education because I would like to learn more, in depth, about autism and developmental disorders from different perspectives. I am passionate about this program because there are always new developments and applied strategies as the research grows. Not only do I want to continue to learn about new research regarding the best practices in our field, I want to be a part of discovering it.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I decided to study at UBC because I wanted to work with the high quality faculty in the program. The faculty in my program have made great contributions to the field locally and internationally, and have excellent relationships in our community.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
UBC Special Education offers a unique curriculum that serves different professionals who work in the home, school, and community settings. Because it is vital to work well with other professionals in our field in order to best serve our clients, this experience provides the opportunity to learn the perspective of others.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I am definitely looking forward to the research component with the most curiosity. I am very excited to carry out my study, and see if I can contribute to the literature in my field.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
I have to say that my undergraduate studies in Applied Behaviour Analysis-Autism at Capilano University had a huge impact in preparing my for the UBC Graduate Program. I had excellent instructors who shaped my study and writing habits, taught me important academic and professional skills, and provided a valuable practicum experience. I also often draw on my experience as a parent, as raising a child gives great insight on child development that helps me teach other children with autism and developmental disabilities.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I love to read, cook and discover great places to eat, bike, paddleboard, and play outside with my family. I also spend a LOT of time at ice rinks - I am a Hockey Mom!
