Annika Szarka
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
In the third year of my undergraduate studies, I found myself grappling with a question familiar to many students: What do I want to do after graduation? I had developed a strong interest in my neuromechanical kinesiology courses and began seeking out research opportunities. Although I faced several rejections, I eventually enrolled in a directed studies project with Dr. Romeo Chua. This experience became my first real exposure to research, and I quickly realized how passionate I was about it. Eager to continue, I pursued a master’s degree focused on the efferent and afferent contributions to implicit adaptation. This allowed me to engage more deeply with the research process, and I found myself genuinely enjoying the work. These experiences ultimately led me to begin my PhD here at UBC.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
My supervisor Dr. Romeo Chua was one of the main reasons I decided to continue my graduate studies here at UBC. He is a phenomenal supervisor whose research interests align well with mine. I also have great relationships with my committee members, which is a crucial component towards success as a grad student. The beauty of the UBC campus and incredible lifestyle in Vancouver is just an added bonus!
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
The UBC Kin program has one of the best neuromechanical groups across Canada. This offers lots of opportunity for cross-lab collaboration, which is an important part of conducting meaningful research. I also really appreciate the flexibility of the program, given that I have a choice in what/how many courses I enroll in, as well as how my comprehensive exams are structured. This has allowed me to tailor my education towards my specific academic goals.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
Since I was raised in the suburbs of Vancouver, there was not much to be surprised about. However, one of the best parts about living here are the sunsets and the ocean. That is a view I will never get tired of.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
One of my favourite parts is the flexibility and diversity of what I do. There is no typical day in the lab, as each day is different. Whether it be working on a manuscript, practicing my coding skills or collecting data, I am constantly doing different tasks and learning new skills along the way.
What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) in your future career?
I think the biggest challenge in my career will be finding an academic position and running a successful lab. Finding my niche within academia with be a large but exciting challenge.
I have great examples of how to run a successful lab all around me. My supervisor and committee members are continuously teaching me how to execute high quality research and facilitate healthy work environments within the lab space, which are crucial components to a successful research program.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
My master's degree provided me with the basic skill set needed for research, including data collection and processing techniques, analysis, and writing skills. My various leadership roles during my undergraduate degree such as KUS President laid the foundation for my organization and time management skills — absolutely critical skills needed to succeed in such a self-directed program.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
When I am out of lab, I love to exercise. I specifically enjoy going to spin class, to dance class or on walks. I also love exploring BC's nature and trying new restaurants!
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Grad school presents many new challenges, and you will likely run into failure more than once. Remember that this is part of the research process. Trust yourself throughout the journey and learn as much as you can along the way.
Learn more about Annika's research
The long-term objective of my research is to better understand the mechanisms of sensorimotor adaptation more broadly and to articulate how our sensorimotor system is able to make continuous, effortless adjustments in regulating goal-directed movements. The short-term objective is to elaborate upon the error signals that drive implicit sensorimotor adaptation and to determine the sensory information sources that contribute to, and/or are necessary for, motor adaptation. The aim of the initial studies in this proposal is to determine the role our sense of position and movement (proprioception, kinesthesis) plays in sensorimotor adaptation and how it is integrated with vision.