Professional Development

Olga Radivojevic

I am only in the first month of my graduate studies, so I feel like I should be the one asking for advice! Nevertheless, I would advise new graduate students to not be afraid to step out of their comfort zone, whether that's networking with…

Justin Wyss

• Explore UBC and Vancouver. You are at a prestigious university in an amazing city, which has a lot to offer. Take advantage of it!
• Connect with people in your field and beyond. There are many interesting people whom you can learn…
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Christina Whang

While it is natural for new students to feel pressured to make quick progress in the program, I believe that taking time to network with surrounding researchers and professionals in your field is essential. Keep an open mind and you may fall in…

Colton Strong

Shop around for the right project-supervisor-environment fit and take advantage of the MSc to PhD fast track! Maybe more important than your thesis project will be the training environment that you are in, including your immediate supervisor, but…

Michelle Lu

Don't get too caught up on making mistakes. It is always better to find ways to move past them than to dwell on them. You are still learning!

Brandi Bird

I’m a new graduate student but I think I would tell my peers to make sure they talk to graduates of their program or people further along in their degree than themselves. I had spoken with graduates of the MFA before choosing to apply and that…

Stephen Johnston

Work hard in school and also in life — get outside and enjoy it!

Stephanie Xie

Finding balance! Make time for self-care and relaxation, and surround yourself with a support group of peers, friends and mentors who can provide encouragement and guidance.

Carraugh Brouwer

I’ve found that meeting people in your department outside of your research group is really important. Interacting with other members of the department can be a fruitful source of new ideas for research, and they may even help you out if you run…

Katrin Steinthorsdottir

Enjoy the weekends as much as possible - it goes by so quickly! And say yes to all the opportunities you want, but still manage to learn to say no when needed!

Graeme Francolini

Make sure to explore campus a bit and take some breaks while working on your studies. Everyone needs to get their work done but keeping yourself sane and healthy is important.

Christina Howard

Take advantage of the amazing community that you are a part of, both professionally and personally. Network with the students around you to develop your research, but also sign yourself up for sports teams or classes. Prioritize your wellbeing,…