Hi! I’m Joanne, a fourth year UBC Biology student nearing the end of my bachelor’s degree.  Ever since high school, I enjoyed sciences (particularly biology), and found the knowledge to be practicable and applicable to every day life. However, in the past few years at UBC, I have struggled with identifying what I specifically want to focus on as a future career. In a midst of confusion, I applied to the Science Co-op program in the hopes of discovering different career options. In an eight-month placement at a biotech company, I found that molecular research and lab work is rather interesting. In order to expand my knowledge about the different types of research, I put in extra effort to seek out clinical research positions in my next co-op placement. I am fortunate to say that I was offered another eight-month placement at St. Paul’s Hospital, where I am currently working in the Orthopaedics research department until the end of the year. Even though the position is quite challenging, especially with my lack of experience in clinical research, I will continue to put in my best effort and learn all that I can.

Because I enjoy being of service to others, I have explored several health care positions through volunteer work. I previously volunteered as a pharmacy assistant for over a year, but found the tasks assigned to me to be quite repetitive. Because of my lack of interest, I discontinued my work at the pharmacy and sought out other positions instead. Currently, I volunteer in a senior home on a weekly basis as part of the recreation staff. I find my interactions with the seniors to be meaningful and worthwhile. Through this experience, I have decided to work in the health care industry post-graduation. More specifically, I am looking to apply at the BCIT nursing program next year. However, in the mean time, I would like to utilize my previous work experience and contribute to the scientific community by working as a lab technician.