Ariana Shivji
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
In my undergraduate degree, I took a course titled “Radioisotopes for Medicine” and quickly became fascinated with how nuclear medicine can be used to develop treatments for a wide variety of pathologies. After taking this course, I decided to explore research in this field with my undergraduate thesis. It was during this time that I discovered how much I enjoyed research and academia and decided that a graduate degree would be the right choice for me. I enjoy being in an environment where I am able to continue to learn about topics that I am passionate about while also contributing to research on the development of radiopharmaceuticals.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I fell in love with the city of Vancouver at an early age! I knew that it would be important to me to enjoy the city that I was attending school in, so UBC quickly became one of my top choices for graduate school. Additionally, having the opportunity to complete research at TRIUMF, Canada’s particle accelerator, which is in Vancouver, was a great motivator for me to study at UBC. At TRIUMF, I have the opportunity to work with a community of researchers in the Life Sciences Division who are committed to improving health outcomes with the use of radionuclides and the development of radiopharmaceuticals. This division is at the forefront of radiochemical research pertaining to clinical applications and the ability to complete research at TRIUMF while earning my degree at UBC was a great reason for why I decided to study at UBC. The city of Vancouver and the academic opportunities at UBC made my choice to study here clear.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
The opportunity to work at TRIUMF and the Department of Chemistry in a joint supervision was very exciting. I knew that I would be fortunate to work in the state-of-the-art facilities at both UBC and TRIUMF and to learn from world-renowned researchers at both institutions. Due to the proximity of UBC to TRIUMF and the connections that the two institutions have, I have the ability to study chemistry and radiochemistry in the Department of Chemistry while completing my research at TRIUMF. Knowing that I would be able to study chemistry while focusing on research in a topic that I am greatly passionate about was what drew me to my program.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
I have found that there are so many ways to get involved. There is always something to do and the university hosts a number of events that are easy to get involved in! Before coming here, I was worried about meeting new people and being able to find a community in a new city; however, I was surprised with how many opportunities there were to get involved.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I am excited to attend the lectures and symposiums offered by the Department of Chemistry at UBC. The Lectures in Modern Chemistry, for example, have been an amazing way to learn about research both within and outside of my field of expertise. These lectures have expanded my horizons and have allowed me to learn about a wide variety of topics. The lectures and symposiums hosted by the UBC Department of Chemistry have provided me with the opportunity to meet with and connect with several professors and researchers from across the world. I have thoroughly enjoyed attending these lectures and look forward to learning more from the visiting professors that UBC hosts in the future.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
My undergraduate thesis prepared me the best for my graduate program. Before the final year of my undergraduate program, I did not have much experience working in a lab setting and had very limited experience with wet lab research. My undergraduate thesis taught me a variety of skills, both hard and soft, that I have used in my graduate program. From this experience, I learned how to work in a collaborative research environment and worked to improve my scientific communication skills, critical thinking skills and laboratory skills, all of which have allowed me to be a more well-rounded researcher. My undergraduate thesis also allowed me to learn more about radiochemistry and nuclear medicine and exposed me to a variety of different research projects that were being conducted. This exposure allowed me to learn more about where my specific research interests were and helped me shape my plan for my graduate thesis.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
In my free time, I enjoy hiking and rock climbing, which is one of the reasons why I was excited to move to Vancouver. Being so close to the mountains is exciting and allows me to enjoy my hobbies.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Try to get involved in your community! UBC has a lot of great extracurricular options and Vancouver has so many clubs and groups that you can join. Whether you get involved by joining a club on campus, becoming a member of your graduate student society or finding a group outside of campus, there are options for anyone and everyone! Not only is this a great way to enjoy your experience in graduate school, but it is also a great way to meet new people!