Yasmin Elliott
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
After completing my bachelor's degree in Psychology and Family & Child Studies at the University of Guelph, I knew I wanted to pursue graduate studies to expand both my research and clinical skill set. Through experiences in post-secondary, hospital and community settings, along with clinical work with children, youth and families, I was confident this was the career path for me. Recognizing gaps in psychology and education in meeting the diverse needs of children and youth has fuelled my passion for social justice grounded, equity-focused research and graduate training.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
Studying at UBC had long been a goal, but what ultimately solidified my decision was learning about the work of my supervisor, Dr. Anusha Kassan. Her research program strongly reflects my values and goals for graduate training and academia. The combination of research alignment and supportive mentorship within her lab has greatly enriched my training and continues to support my development as a researcher and practitioner.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
I was drawn to the School and Applied Child Psychology program at UBC for its commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and decolonization. School psychology offers a unique pathway to engage with children and youth in the contexts that shape their daily lives. The program's practicum opportunities, paired with its values-driven training model, made it stand out as the ideal place to develop my skills and advance my career.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
Vancouver is stunning! Growing up in Ontario, I was pleasantly surprised by how accessible nature and outdoor activities are here. You truly get the best of both worlds with beaches and mountains, and as a busy graduate student, I appreciate how easy it is to get outside and reset.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
The range of settings and experiences I had the opportunity to work in before coming to UBC has prepared me to fully engage in graduate studies. Working in school, clinical and community-based settings allowed me to develop skills in collaborating with individuals with diverse personalities and professional styles. Each experience taught me valuable lessons that have shaped my own professional values and approach, equipping me to navigate complex situations and contribute meaningfully to graduate-level work.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
I always tell new graduate students that graduate school is a marathon, not a sprint. It can be tempting to try to do everything at once, but pushing yourself to burnout is not the way. While your studies are important, taking care of yourself, physically, mentally and emotionally, is essential to staying energized and tackling challenges effectively. Lean on those around you. Faculty and peers are there to support you and help you get the most out of your exciting graduate journey.
Learn more about Yasmin's research
My research explores the school integration experiences of newcomer youth in a Metro Vancouver high school. Using an arts-based engagement ethnography grounded in a critical and social justice theoretical orientations, I meaningfully involve newcomer youth in the research process to ensure their voices and perspectives guide the inquiry. The findings of this project aim to inform culturally responsive educational and psychological practices in school settings.