Carraugh Brouwer
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I’ve always been a keen student with a love for learning. As I was wrapping up my undergraduate degree, I knew that I wanted to continue to develop my knowledge. I had a great community of people around me including friends, family and professors who encouraged me and supported me to continue with my education.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
Having grown up and lived in Ontario for most of my life, I wanted to experience life in a different part of Canada. I had always heard great things about Vancouver, and after coming to UBC for a campus visit, I knew I wanted to study here. UBC has a great reputation for research excellence and a beautiful campus.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
I enjoy the opportunities for collaboration and interdisciplinary research. I did a double major in mathematics and biochemistry for my undergrad and though I’m in the chemistry department now, I get to incorporate lots of biology and physics into my research.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
I’ve really loved connecting with the queer community here. I like seeing the ways people dress and express themselves out and about in Vancouver. There are a lot of fun queer events and concerts to attend. I’ve made a lot of good friends, including my wonderful girlfriend, Elise.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
During my undergraduate degree, I had the opportunity to conduct research in chemistry and mathematics, supported by NSERC Undergraduate Student Research Awards. I realized that having a mixture of hands-on lab work and analysis in chemistry suited me better than abstract mathematics research at my desk and chalkboard all day. My undergraduate research supervisors taught me so much about research, from project design to technical skills to critical analysis of results, and were hugely supportive when I was applying to graduate programs.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I love to play board games. My roommates and I own over 40 different games!
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
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 out of research supplies. Additionally, having social connections with other grad students can support your mental health and help you identify and speak up about ways that your work environment or department can be more equitable and inclusive. Some ways to make friends in your department are to attend departmental events, chat with other TAs or join a departmental club or committee.
