Program:
MSc student
Research Theme:
Nanomedicine and Chemical Biology
Prior Education:
Honours Bachelor of Science (Double Major in Biology and Chemistry), Lakehead University
Hometown:
Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
Extracurricular Activities:
I am currently an executive on the Pharmaceutical Sciences Graduate Society (PharGS), where I am responsible for planning and implementing professional development events for graduate students.
“The most surprising thing about my time in Pharm Sci is how friendly and tightly knit everyone in the Faculty is and how easy it was to find a community.”
What motivated you to pursue a graduate degree in pharmaceutical sciences?
I have always had an interest in the sciences and coming out of high school I decided to pursue a degree in biology and chemistry. Over the course of my degree, I worked in a lab where I conducted medicinal chemistry research. This afforded me the opportunity to try my hand at research and led to me developing a passion for medicinal chemistry, which I later decided to continue pursuing through graduate studies.
What has been your favorite Pharm Sci class?
My favourite class so far has been the graduate seminar course. It provides us with an opportunity to hear from experts and practitioners in the field about a wide range of topics related to pharmaceutical sciences.
What is your research project about?
My research project is about the development of molecules that inhibit the function of a newly established protein target associated with metastatic breast cancer’s invasive properties. The purpose of the project is to develop novel treatments that reduce breast cancer metastasis. Practically, this involves producing and optimizing novel chemical entities to be tested in biochemical assays. Personally, it is quite exciting to work on a new target for breast cancer treatment. Plus, I get to come up with ideas in a new space that may greatly influence the direction the project takes.
What has surprised you the most about your time at UBC Pharm Sci so far?
The most surprising thing about my time in Pharm Sci is how friendly and tightly knit everyone in the Faculty is and how easy it was to find a community.
What was the most challenging part of the program so far, and how did you handle it?
The most challenging part of the program so far has been cutting out time from research for classes and assignments. I have found it very easy to get engrossed in lab work and neglect courses, but I’ve been making sure to devote an appropriate amount of time to staying on top of it.
What are some fun activities you enjoy doing in and around Vancouver?
While I have been here for almost half a year, so far I’ve greatly enjoyed the small amount of outdoor activities I’ve partaken in around Vancouver, such as hiking and snowboarding, and I’m eager to continue exploring. I’ve also had fun exploring the city, from beautiful Stanley Park to the busy streets downtown, and the long stretches of beach along the coast. Apart from that, I enjoy spending most of my time socializing with the friends I’ve made so far.
What advice would you give to prospective students considering pursuing graduate studies at UBC Pharm Sci?
I would advise future students to really consider all that UBC Pharm Sci and Vancouver have to offer. I have found the program to be exceptional in terms of both research and student life, which is very important to me. If you are someone with a passion for research in pharmaceutical sciences as well as a strong desire for a healthy work-life balance, UBC Pharm Sci offers a fantastic and well-equipped research facility along with a welcoming, cooperative, and friendly student community, all in beautiful Vancouver.