AnnaMaria Zubieta
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
Throughout my academic journey, I have always been drawn to a large range of interests. These diverse passions were what inspired me to study Chemical Engineering, arguably one of the most interdisciplinary fields out there. During my bachelor's degree, I also had the privilege of participating in undergraduate research. I loved discovering new things and contributing to our existing body of knowledge, which solidified my desire to pursue graduate studies.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
Having grown up and completed my bachelor's in Eastern Canada, I was eager to experience a new city during my graduate degree. Aside from UBC being one of the top universities in the world with lots of industrial connections, I was also drawn to the incredible nature surrounding Vancouver. In addition, when I visited the university, I found students and staff alike to be very kind and welcoming, which made UBC feel like a perfect fit from the start.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
I learned about UBC's graduate programs and met my supervisor at the 2023 Canadian Chemical Engineering Conference. Dr. Taghipour's research aligned with my previous experience in water treatment and environmental engineering, but it also incorporated electrochemical technologies. I took a class in electrochemical engineering during my undergraduate degree that I greatly enjoyed, and I was excited about the prospect of conducting research related to this field. I also liked that the students in my supervisor's lab were all given the opportunity to design physical prototypes towards the end of their degrees, as I enjoy working on hands-on engineering design projects.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
Although I had heard a lot about the amazing landscapes and nature in Vancouver before my arrival, I was still surprised by how much the natural world plays a role in my day-to-day life at UBC. The campus has so many green spaces that I am still discovering to this day. Funny enough, when I first arrived in Vancouver, I also remember being very shocked by the immense size of the coniferous trees on and around campus. Growing up in Eastern Canada, I had never seen trees that tall in my life!
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
One thing I really enjoy during my research is learning how to use new instruments and analytical techniques. It is so exciting to master a skill that allows you to gain more insight into the topic you are investigating! I also find it very rewarding to be able to handle software and machinery that previously seemed daunting to me.
What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) in your future career?
In recent years, we have seen a huge shift in the ways we live and work in Canada and around the world. Technological advancements, changing economic landscapes and environmental protection are all concerns that have influenced our lifestyles. I believe my future career will involve designing creative solutions to these problems with diverse teams in order to develop approaches that benefit as many people as possible.
How do you feel your program is preparing you for those challenges?
My program is very interdisciplinary, allowing me to increase my understanding of these emerging global challenges and how they relate to each other. I have the opportunity to take classes in energy engineering, environmental science, classical engineering design and sustainability leadership. These classes have deepened my understanding of the complexity of these issues and how socioeconomics also play a role. In addition, throughout my research, I am applying my engineering knowledge to the complex environmental challenge of water pollution. This project is therefore enabling me to gain a better understanding of how my skills can be applied to real-life, pertinent issues.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
My undergraduate research experiences definitely gave me insight into how research is conducted. They showed me that research is not a linear path and that failure is common and expected! Research is a lot about trial and error, and it takes a while to achieve good results. They also allowed me to gain knowledge of tools and instruments that have proven useful during my graduate studies. Perhaps more surprisingly, however, I would also say that my extracurricular activities during my bachelor's have proven to be very valuable. Through my many involvements, I developed skills such as leadership, time management, communication and teamwork. These skills translate to many settings, including lab work and course requirements.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I have been practicing yoga for the past eight years, which is a hobby that I have continued during my time at UBC. However, since moving to Vancouver, I have tapped more into my outdoorsy side, engaging in activities such as hiking and camping more often. I am also eager to try alpine skiing.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
I believe balance is key to being successful during graduate studies. While you should be prepared to put in a lot of hard work, it is also important to find time for rest and relaxation. I would highly encourage new graduate students to explore different hobbies during their degree to help alleviate stress, especially physical activities. I have found it helpful to schedule these activities in my calendar to help me prioritize them. Before committing to a graduate program, I also think it is important to educate yourself as much as you can about the team with which you will be working. Meet with prospective supervisors and current students as much as possible, and ask lots of questions about management styles and day-to-day life within the group to ensure you are a good fit.
