Sabrina Cao
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I decided to pursue a graduate degree because I was interested in learning more about the field of exercise oncology. At the time, I felt that there was a lot of knowledge that wasn't well-disseminated, and I wanted to understand why. I also wanted to expand my scope of practice, since treating individuals in a clinical setting didn't feel like my calling. Ultimately, a research-based graduate degree gave me the freedom to pursue knowledge in my areas of interest while receiving expert guidance that felt relevant.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
My decision to study at UBC can be attributed to my supervisor, for the most part. Dr. Kristin Campbell is a leader in the field of exercise oncology with an extensive network to be accessed. Her expertise in my areas of interest and the quality of her work were very important to me, and I wanted nothing more than to be part of her lab. UBC was the ideal location for me because I wanted to return home to Vancouver after studying in the United States for my undergraduate degree. To me, Vancouver is still the most beautiful city, and I couldn't wait to be back.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
My program offered a flexibility that was very attractive to me. As a student in Rehabilitation Sciences, my peers were all experts in fields that differed quite significantly from me. This provided a multidisciplinary lens that I think is very important to bring to research. This multidisciplinary approach extends to the courses that it offers; there is ample opportunity to explore topics that are not necessarily related to my research topic.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
Even though I grew up in Vancouver, I am always impressed by how beautiful the campus and the city are. At UBC, there are so many opportunities to get involved with the community.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I most enjoy my role as a graduate research assistant because of the variety that it adds to my daily tasks. It gives me the chance to connect with the people that I do research about and exposes me to unique challenges that you don't often encounter outside of research.
What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) in your future career?
I think that the biggest challenge that I will face in my career is finding a niche that I can specialize in where it isn't too saturated but will still be funded.
How do you feel your program is preparing you for those challenges?
My program is preparing me to handle this challenge by equipping me with skills that are transferrable between different jobs and industries. I am learning how to market myself as an individual with relevant skills rather than fitting myself into a box. The program also provides me with exposure to experts that are a valuable insight into the direction that the field is heading.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
My experience working as an undergraduate research assistant prepared me best for my graduate program. It taught me the project management skills that I use to manage the projects that I work on in the lab. My English minor and the writing that I did for those classes also contributed to my success in this program.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I really like to hike and be outside, especially since it is so accessible in Vancouver. I also like to play basketball, volleyball and ultimate. To relax, I love to bake bread and play board games with my friends.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Starting grad school can feel pretty daunting, especially because it tends to feel more isolating than undergraduate programs. I would advise new graduate students to look for opportunities to get involved. There are lots of student groups that are department-specific or UBC-wide that provide a community to be part of. These connections are so important for finding support and motivation through some of the harder parts of the degree.
