Hebah Hussaina
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
Through my previous research experience, I became interested in the intersection of child/adolescent mental health and outdoor and risky play. After my master's degree, I wanted to continue exploring this intersection, especially through the lens of health promotion initiatives and knowledge translation. Pursuing a graduate degree was the best way to continue exploring my interests in a way that I could simultaneously support a community with my research while gaining new skills and knowledge. I am passionate about supporting healthy child development and communities, and being in a graduate degree program provides me with the support to continue fostering that passion.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I completed both my Bachelor's and Master's degrees at UBC, and throughout those experiences, I became embedded within the community here. It was an easy choice to continue studying at UBC because of the love that I have for my community. Through my research, I want to give back to this community that shaped me into the person I am today. Studying at UBC allows me to contextualize my research to British Columbia and support initiatives that can help these communities. UBC is additionally a world-renowned facility, and I am so grateful for the opportunities it has provided me to develop my skills and knowledge as a researcher. I am excited to continue working with Dr. Mariana Brussoni and the Outside Play Lab at UBC, along with the Human Early Learning Partnership and BC Children's Hospital Research Institute. I look forward to continuing to explore UBC and all that it can provide to support my graduate degree and beyond!
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
Given that the School of Population and Public Health (SPPH) is world-renowned, it was an easy choice to join the PhD program! SPPH provides a wide variety of courses in a breadth of topics that can provide me with the applicable skills and knowledge I need. This was extremely important to me as I wanted to have a strong foundation to pursue my research and take these skills beyond into my future career. I am so excited to meet, learn from, and work with other students, researchers, and leaders passionate about public health. The SPPH PhD program offers so many of these opportunities, along with the support I need to be successful in my doctoral degree. Finally, I am looking forward to continuing to work with my supervisor, Dr. Mariana Brussoni, who is a superstar researcher and a fabulous mentor and supporter!
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
UBC is a city on its own — despite living here for so many years, there are still many areas that I haven't been to yet. I enjoy continuing to explore UBC and discover new places, especially natural, outdoor environments during different seasons.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I am looking forward to developing my doctoral research and seeing it come to life. I am so excited for the opportunity to connect with my local community through my research and build relationships with new people.
What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) in your future career?
Being able to step out of my comfort zone to meet new people, present my research in different environments, and advocate for myself in academic settings.
How do you feel your program is preparing you for those challenges?
By providing opportunities for me to step out of my comfort zone in the first place, and through professional development workshops that provide a safe space for me to practice the skills I need.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
I have worked in a variety of community settings with different populations. Through these experiences, I have learned to tailor my communication and working style to each unique setting. Given that my research will involve working with various community groups, I hope that adapting my communication and working style with different people can help ensure the success of my work.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
In my spare time, I enjoy baking and cooking for my family and friends, powerlifting in the gym, and spending time exploring outside in the beautiful city of Vancouver and beyond.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
When I started my Master's degree, the best piece of advice I was given by a mentor was that a graduate degree is not a sprint; it's a marathon. Because of this, ensuring you prioritize your mental health and well-being is so, so important. Finding ways to practice self-care in your daily life is integral for graduate student success, which could include finding a supportive community. UBC has so many ways to engage with different communities (i.e., hobby/sports clubs, graduate student societies, etc.). I encourage everyone to find their communities, especially if it can benefit their well-being!