Stephen Johnston
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I have always had a passion for salmon and was keen to pursue a career in salmon conservation and ecology. I spent ten years working in salmon-based tourism and needed to improve my scientific understanding of salmonids, and graduate studies were an obvious track.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
My supervisor is a world-renowned salmon ecologist with a focus on fisheries conservation, which was the exact topic I was most interested in. UBC itself also has a well-established reputation for fisheries research and practical solutions to conservation issues.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
A consistent track record of working directly with industry to improve fishery practices.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
The campus is a beautiful place to study.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
Fieldwork is always the cherry on top of the research program. Spending time in the environment where my species of study exists always reminds me of why we are doing the work we are.
What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) in your future career?
Not burning out. Conservation science can be draining.
How do you feel your program is preparing you for those challenges?
We have pushed ourselves hard through field seasons and continued to grind in the off seasons.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
I developed a significant amount of experience in understanding salmon biology through fishing professionally for them. I often bring a non-academic perspective to our discussions that I developed through experience with our species of interest outside of the classroom and textsbooks.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I am a passionate angler.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Work hard in school and also in life — get outside and enjoy it!
