Louise Ramos
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I initially thought of becoming a doctor in hopes of helping treat cancer patients. However, as I progressed through my undergraduate studies, I learned about the impact researchers have in medicine. Instead of treating cancer patients myself, I can be a part of the research that fundamentally changes they way they are treated. Thus for both my master's and PhD, I have chosen to focus on cancer drug development and finding ways to decrease side effects for patients in hopes of improving their quality of life.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
Growing up in Canada, you always hear about how amazing UBC is and how innovative and progressive the research environment is. And after being here, I can attest to the incredible research being conducted around me and all the cool equipment/facilities that we have access to.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
The great thing about the Experimental Medicine program is how interdisciplinary it is! Although I primarily focus on cancer, the program offers opportunities to learn about other disciplines within medicine. As a scientist, I think it is important to grow and diversify your skillset in order to push the boundaries of your research.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
Vancouver really lives up to its name on being such a beautiful city. The balance between nature and city is hard to beat! Also coming from Alberta, the weather has been a nice change and actually being able to experience four seasons. I was also happy to see how diverse the student population is within my graduate program and have made connections with people from all around the world!
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I think one of the best things about grad school has been both being able to pursue a topic that I love and making incredible friends along the way. Everyday, I feel like I learn something new about my field or myself. As my project moves along, I am looking forward to see where my research takes me and what the final story will look like when I defend.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
Prior to my PhD, I did a lot of of both academic work to improve my technical skills and theoretical knowledge of cancer. I completed a Bachelor's in Genetics at the University of Alberta where I did a fourth-year research project investigating regulators of a tumour suppressor. After that, I did a diploma in Biological Science Technology at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology to receive training in both in vitro and in vivo biological techniques. I then pursued a Master's in Translational Oncology to learn about everything from the molecular to the clinical aspects of cancer. My master's research in cancer drug development sparked my interest in the field which I am pursuing to this day. Outside of academics, I also volunteered closely with cancer patients and palliative care patients which continuously inspires me to put patients at the forefront of my research.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I love playing volleyball with my friends either on the beach when its nice out or indoors during the fall and winter. Art and music are also things that bring me a lot of joy and peace. I try to paint when I can or attend music/art events. I love fashion, so I go thrifting a lot to find cool pieces to express myself both in the lab and in my regular life.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
My advice would be to try and find balance between your academic life and personal life. I am definitely still guilty of letting my research take over my life, but it makes a difference to take the time to spend time with friends or do something you love. Its also important to understand that sometimes science doesn't work out no matter how well thought out your experimental plan is. Grad school is difficult, but having a strong support system around you can make the bad days a little easier and the good ones even better.
