Kristen Danielle (she/her), who goes by Dana, is a graduate of the Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (BMLSc) program. Pursuing a career related to medicine to be able to help others has been her dream for as long as she can remember. Dana grew up in the Philippines, where she was homeschooled. During her 4th year in the BMLSc program, she did research on single molecule assays (SiMoA) for neurological biomarkers in blood as a directed studies student at Wellington Laboratories at Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health. Dana is an awardee of the B.J. Twaites Prize for Excellence in Laboratory Administration. In addition to working in research, she works as a secretary at UBC hospital. In her free time, some of her favourite things to do are puzzles, going on scenic hikes, and discovering amazing food spots with her friends (especially for desserts!).
What drew you to the Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (BMLSc) degree at UBC?
Online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic made me really miss hands-on learning and close interactions with my peers. I stumbled across the BMLSc program website by chance while I was doing research for one of my courses, and was really excited by its small class size and emphasis on medical laboratory techniques.
How has studying in the BMLSc program made an impact on you?
The BMLSc program has opened the door to research for me, and built a foundation for me as a researcher. Prior to the program, I had zero research experience and no idea how to find a research position. However, the BMLSc program provided me with so many experiences that I never would have imagined myself having as an undergraduate student. Some of these highlights included site visits to local laboratories, a summer trip to Northern BC with the Travelling Healthcare Roadshow, and running my own research project as a directed studies student.
What was something you learned in the BMLSc program that surprised you?
The BMLSc program gave me many opportunities to get involved with research in the pathology department, which led me to learn a lot about the research community. Something that surprised me was the interdisciplinary collaboration that goes into research and how many different focuses there are for research topics. People with all different backgrounds and skill sets work together in a research laboratory. There is such a wide range of research interests that there is something for everyone.
What is your favourite memory from your time at UBC?
My favourite memory has to be getting to know my BMLSc family. I formed close friendships with several students in my cohort, who are some of the most hard-working and compassionate people I know. I have learned so much from them through long study sessions and exam periods, trips to Rain or Shine ice cream, and traveling together during the summer.
Where do you find inspiration?
I am inspired by my dad, who has always encouraged me to be curious and seek out truths. Our many conversations exploring philosophical topics built me the habit to think critically about the world around me. My dad’s constant support gave me the courage to try new things and pursue many opportunities in my time at UBC, which eventually led me to discover my passion for research.
What does a healthy society mean to you?
A healthy society works hard and sacrifices to build better lives and opportunities for future generations. Its people aim to leave the world better than they found it.
“A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in.” – Greek Proverb
What are your plans after graduation?
My friends and I are planning to travel to Japan to celebrate our graduation. For the summer, I have accepted a research position to continue to work on furthering my investigation of blood-based neurological biomarkers at Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, at the laboratory where I completed my directed studies project. Afterwards, I would like to pursue grad school to continue building my research experience and eventually apply for medical school somewhere down the line.
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