Andrea Goldson Barnaby
What are your main responsibilities or activities in your current position?
Administration of the Master of Science in Food and Agro Processing Technology Lecturing: Undergraduates and graduates Undergraduates: Chemical Analysis and Food Processing Principles Graduates: Food Chemistry Research and publication Hosting of Food Safety Workshops for Industry Personnel Supervision of Research Projects
How does your current work relate to your graduate degree?
My graduate degree was in Food Science and relates well to my current work in that I am managing a M Sc Program in Agro Processing Technology, supervising student research projects, as well as teaching in that field.
What do you like and what do you find challenging about your current position?
Trying to find a balance between the different roles involved in my current job
Is your current career path as you originally intended?
I always knew that I wanted to be a Food Technologist but was unsure as to what role I would play in this field and how I would fulfill this dream.
What motivated you to pursue graduate work at UBC?
A lecturer at my undergraduate university encouraged me to study overseas. That's how the journey began. Thereafter I started investigating various universities and scholarship opportunities.
What did you enjoy the most about your time as a graduate student at UBC?
Meeting and interacting with students from across the globe, which widened my perspective and knowledge of the world. I also learned new research methods with which I was previously unfamiliar.
What key things did you do, or what attitudes or approaches did you have, that contributed to your success?
My religious faith, excellent family and friend support, focus, determination and adaptability.
What is your best piece of advice for current graduate students preparing for their future careers?
Make the most of the opportunities that present themselves. Try to have a balance in life.
Did you have any breaks in your education?
Yes, I worked for two years as a research scientist prior to doing doctoral studies. It was not planned. Different opportunities presented themselves at different times. It helped my career progression as I gained valuable work experience.
How did you find out about/obtain your current position?
My prior supervisor for my Masters degree was going on sabbatical and asked me to fill her role while she was on leave.
What challenges did you face in your graduate degree, or in launching your career?
There was a steep learning curve. I had to learn and apply new experimental techniques that I was not familiar with. Never be afraid to take on new challenges. Never give up.
How are jobs normally posted and filled in your organization or industry?
Electronically via email.
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