Why did you choose to study at IOF?
I have been working for the non-profit Cetus Research and Conservation Society for the past several years, studying cetacean-vessel interactions in the Discovery Islands. I knew I wanted to advance my degree and connect my work with Cetus to the cutting-edge research happening at IOF. It is great to have a program that connects partner organizations with academic institutions. The interdisciplinary approach and applied focus of IOF’s research perfectly align with my goal of bridging community-based conservation with broader ecological frameworks.
What program are you enrolled in, and what drew you to it?
I am enrolled in the MSc program under the supervision of Dr. Daniel Pauly. I’ve long admired the mission of the Sea Around Us project and its commitment to improving our understanding of global fisheries through accessible, data-driven research. The opportunity to contribute to that work, while grounding my thesis in local datasets collected by Cetus, felt like the ideal way to link local conservation with global context.
What has been the biggest adjustment to university life at IOF?
The biggest adjustment has been moving back to the big city! After living on Quadra Island for the past few years, returning to Vancouver has definitely been a change of pace. It’s been an adjustment trading in quiet shorelines for city traffic, but it’s also nice to reconnect with old friends and rediscover the city I grew up in.
What has surprised you the most about IOF so far?
I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how collaborative and supportive the environment is. Everyone, from faculty to fellow students, is genuinely interested in helping each other succeed. There’s also an impressive diversity of research happening under one roof, which makes for really inspiring conversations and cross-disciplinary ideas.
How are you finding the academic and social community in your first year?
The lab community is fantastic, there are so many opportunities to connect through seminars, social events, and student groups. It’s been great meeting people with such a wide range of expertise, and everyone is so willing to share advice and experiences. It really feels like a community rather than just a department.
What do you hope to achieve or explore during your first year?
I hope to strengthen my quantitative analysis skills and challenge myself. I am excited to fill any knowledge gaps I currently have in such a supportive environment, and to leave as a well-rounded scientist. On a personal level, I want to make the most of IOF’s collaborative environment and learn from the incredible range of researchers here.
What advice would you give to incoming students who are about to start their first year?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions or reach out for help, everyone here wants you to succeed. Take advantage of the community events early on, it’s the best way to feel connected and supported. And remember to make time to get outside, Vancouver has some of the most beautiful natural spaces right at your doorstep!