Danielle Hanke
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I had the opportunity to work in a few different labs throughout my undergrad degree, and I loved being able to do research. I had thought about applying to pharmacy, but I was more interested in the hands-on research I would be able to do while completing my PhD
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
UBC has the top Pharmaceutical Sciences program in Canada, which was a major draw for me to choose UBC. Also, the campus is beautiful and Vancouver is a great city!
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
I was specifically drawn to the research being done by my supervisor, Dr. Brent Page. The Page lab conducts medicinal chemistry research to develop small molecule inhibitors of several proteins, which was an area of research that I was extremely interested in.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
The people in the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences have all been extremely friendly and helpful! The current grad students, staff, and faculty members have made me feel very welcome, and have answered all of my questions about starting out grad school (and I had a lot of questions!).
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
I think that my Co-op work terms and Honours research project have helped prepare me for my UBC graduate program. My graduate program is research-based, so having that experience conducting my own small research projects in the past have helped me develop technical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills that will be applicable throughout my graduate degree and career.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Don't be afraid to ask questions! Starting grad school, especially if you are starting grad school at a new school or in a new country, can be confusing and a little overwhelming at the start, but asking questions can help alleviate a lot of the initial stress.