Bei Jiang
Generating innovation in urban planning: Applying the Ecosystem Service assessment to planning projects
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I have practised architecture and urban planning for over eight years before starting the doctoral program. I decided to pursue a graduate degree to have the opportunity to design research and advance ecological performance in practice.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I love the city of Vancouver, and I thought UBC has a rich cultural environment for people across the world.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
The fact that as a Ph.D. student, I can design my own research plan. Plus, I can work with professors across faculties more easily than in a working environment.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
Nature, and the variety of culture.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I feel very excited giving speeches at conferences. It is a great opportunity to meet interesting people, and connect myself to the broad academic world.
What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) in your future career?
I have not thought much about challenges in my future career. I am confronting quite a challenge to complete the Ph.D. degree.
How do you feel your program is preparing you for those challenges?
It is hard to tell if the job market welcomes PhDs with an interdisciplinary study background. I feel confident that the integration of ecological knowledge and urban planning has a bright future in both practice and academia.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
I learned how to structure an input into my existing knowledge system. I feel more confident presenting my thought in either a casual or official way.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I love spending time with friends for coffee or beer on campus. I also cook creatively. Recently I started to write a personal blog.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Make sure your research is funded, and work with a passionate supervisor.
