Antonia Soldovieri
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I decided to pursue a graduate degree in order to gain the clinical skills needed to work in a responsive and effective way with children and youth. From my foundational courses in my undergrad, I learned that I was most interested in working with younger populations, as well as my passion for understanding and fostering inclusive learning spaces. School psychology felt like an exciting combination of psychology and learning, and allows practitioners to support students through public systems who might not otherwise receive support. I value the potential for fostering equity and uplifting minoritized groups. All of that and a love for learning and discourse made a graduate degree feel like a natural and important next step.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology at the University of Toronto, which is where I grew up as well. I was eager to live somewhere new and experience the Pacific Northwest. Our school psychology program at UBC is also one of few accredited programs in Canada, so I knew the training would be diverse and rigorous.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
There are a diversity of practicum experiences in school and clinical settings which give students lots of interesting experiences to help identify their interests and strengths in different areas. The program follows a scientist-practitioner model to allow for both practical and research skills to be developed, which I feel is highly valuable for our field. That and our highly dedicated faculty!
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
Just how beautiful the surrounding areas are. I still have to pinch myself sometimes at the nature and vastness of outdoor access.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
This year my practicum is at an elementary school, working with students on a variety of assessment and intervention-related activities. It's been super interesting and rewarding learning how to navigate school systems and support students in my role.
What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) in your future career?
We just need more folks in education — teachers, educational assistants, school psychologists and other school-based professionals. Our education systems are under-resourced, despite growing need from students of all ages in the areas of mental health and learning. I anticipate needing to provide a broad range of supports, be strategic with my time and energy, advocate for students' needs and work within a system that is continuing to adapt to changes in how young learners need to be supported.
How do you feel your program is preparing you for those challenges?
Plenty of practical experience, good role modeling for what advocacy can look like and an understanding of both individual and system-level change processes.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
Experiences working with children and youth from various backgrounds and with various needs, for the most part. Having experience at the undergraduate level with research and larger projects involving data collection also helped.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
Anything creative that doesn't involve a screen is good — drawing, collaging, cooking, getting outdoors!
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Don't forget to take breaks. There will always be more you could be doing, but taking care of yourself, building in rest and finding time away from your work will allow you to do better work in the end.
