Class of 2024: Chloe Chambers
| Chloe Chambers (she/her/hers) |
| Program: BSc in Applied Animal Biology |
How did you hear about LFS at UBC?
While I was researching programs that aligned with my interests, I learned that UBC’s Applied Animal Biology Program wasn’t in Science, but in the Faculty of LFS, which I hadn’t heard of before. But I’m so glad I chose the program. Even though more than half of my courses were non-LFS, I know that I benefited from being in a smaller faculty. You get to know your peers, professors, and student services staff better, which gives you a great system of support and tons of opportunities.
What challenges did you encounter while a student and how did you overcome them?
I found my Honours thesis to be a huge challenge, but I wouldn’t have had it any other way. I went into it with some big ideas, but little experience conducting independent research – I totally bit off more than I could chew. I had so much support from my supervisors, but it took longer than expected, and I was discouraged during the writing stage, seeing all the ways I might have done things differently. I questioned my plans to pursue graduate studies, but in seeing how much I had learned from the experience, I was motivated to continue with my research goals.
What was your favourite class and why?
My favorite class was APBI 490A, Experimental Design, Statistics, and Data Analysis in Plant Sciences. It might sound intimidating, but it was by far the most helpful course I’ve taken in terms of being able to apply what I’ve learned in class to real-world work. I had a fantastic TA who encouraged us to use our own datasets for assignments, which made it engaging and applicable. I used what I learned about conducting statistical analysis in R during my research assistantship in the Animal Welfare Program and for my Honours thesis.
Do you recommend students get involved in extra-curriculars? What did you do outside of the classroom?
Getting involved in extra curriculars can be incredibly rewarding, but not everyone has the time for them, especially if you’re working or if you commute. Personally, I was fortunate to have had the time for some fun extra curriculars throughout my time at university, including being a volunteer, then later an executive, at Agora Cafe, volunteering with the BC SPCA at their pet food bank in the Downtown Eastside, and as an AV tech volunteer at Tenth Church. I also played intramural volleyball and performed in shows around Vancouver as a member of a double Dutch jump rope team.
What is the next step for you? Do you have plans post-graduation?
I’ll be doing an MSc in Epidemiology with Dr. Claire Kendall at the University of Ottawa with a focus on social epidemiology and community health.
Favourite place to eat in Vancouver?
I have too many favourites to list, but among them are The Eatery, Damso, and La Taqueria. I try not to go to the same places twice, because Vancouver has so much variety, but I’ve been to each of these multiple times, so they’re definitely doing something right!
Tagged with: 2024, Applied Biology, Undergraduate