Daniel Stewart
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
A graduate degree at UBC gave me the opportunity to expand my knowledge of a subject that is important to me both personally and professionally. Importantly, it offered a supportive workspace to grow in, as I am surrounded by fellow students I admire and have the guidance of faculty who know much more than I do.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
My past experience as a master's student was very positive. I made great connections with faculty, felt supported and enjoyed working on the UBC campus greatly.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
Faculty and mentors that are world leaders in their respective subjects. Also, witnessing real-world change resulting from their research was a real inspiration for me.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
I'm from Vancouver, so no surprises there! But I was surprised at how large UBC was when I first attended, with so many libraries, places to eat and places to find solitude. The Nitobe Japanese Garden and UBC Botanical Garden are wonderful and fully accessible to students.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
Chatting with my lab colleagues about our research and how we remain healthy while facing our academic demands.
What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) in your future career?
Communicating the importance of my work to decision makers who are less-familiar with my subject
There are many opportunities to grow in my communication skills as a student. This includes taking a communications course and preparing presentations for a variety of audiences ranging from naturalist groups to research conference attendees.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
I was a self-employed consultant prior to commencing my graduate studies. In many ways I think the work demands are similar between the two workplaces, as both require me to be self-motivated and structured. Many of my experiences and observations as a consultant are the foundation and inspiration of my graduate research.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I repair guitars, play live music and am an avid gardener.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Spend some time looking at what UBC has to offer you. There are so many free or cheap programs available to students! These can be great places to meet people. The quantity of options can be overwhelming at times, so my suggestion would be to dive in and latch onto a few things, and stick to them.
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Learn more about Daniel's research
My research aims to acquire information that can inform, innovate and improve tidal marsh restoration activities in the Fraser River Estuary and similar northeast Pacific ecosystems using historical records, field data, field experiments and decision science.