Leah Rettenbacher
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I decided to pursue a graduate degree because I felt that I wasn't finished learning about genomics in relation to forestry and I wanted to complete my own research project from start to finish.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I decided to study at UBC because I wanted to combine my interests in the outdoors and forests with my interest in biology which led me to UBC Forestry's Forest Sciences program for my undergraduate and now graduate degrees.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
I was attracted to the MSc in forestry program because it was a research based masters program focused more on a personal research project than classes.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
The best surprise about UBC is how close it is to such nice parks and beaches.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
Working on my undergraduate thesis definitely helped prepare me for working on my MSc thesis. Also, unfortunately as a lot of school has been online the past two years, having worked jobs where I had to work alone and be self sufficient has helped me get through the past year.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
I would tell new students to learn how to manage your own time and make your own deadlines.
