Mormei Zanke
Why did you choose your program at UBC and what did you enjoy most about it?
I came to UBC with a love for literature and interest in writing creatively. For that reason, I was drawn to pursuing a double major in both of these areas—Creative Writing and English Language and Literatures—which I found complemented and informed each other throughout my degree. What I enjoyed most was the opportunity to discuss and dissect texts spanning many centuries, and using that knowledge to further my understanding of storytelling and craft in my creative writing classes.
What were some of your most meaningful experiences at UBC?
One of my most favourite and impactful classes I took was a course in the Department of English Language and Literatures taught by Dr. Glenn Deer. The course explored the theme of food through Asian diasporic literature and film. While I didn’t know it then, this would go on to inspire a thesis project I completed during my time studying journalism at New York University. The project traced the origins of chop suey in North America while weaving in my own family history.
What choices did you make at UBC that contributed to your career success / journey?
The Arts Co-op Program was really valuable in setting me up for a future career. Both logistically—resume building, the application process, interviewing—and also skills-wise by exposing me to a variety of media opportunities that allowed me to gain technical and strategical knowledge I still use today.
What was your first job after graduation and what other jobs did you have before your current position?
My first job after graduation was as a language teacher in Japan as part of the Jet Exchange Programme. Upon returning to Canada, I worked in marketing before going on to New York University where I had various jobs in social media, podcasting, and writing.
Is your current career path as you originally intended? What challenges did you face in launching your career?
My career path has surprised me in ways I didn’t expect. While I was a student I aspired to be a writer in some professional capacity, but I didn’t know how versatile the skills of communication and storytelling could be in various fields. I think the main pivot for me was switching my perspective to be more flexible.
What do you like about your current job and what do you find challenging? How does it relate to your degree?
I love that in my current job I can use storytelling and communications to bring awareness to New York City’s natural areas. I like that it’s mission-driven work and I can use the skills I acquired during my degree to advocate for a cause I care about.
From your experience, what has been the value of having an Arts degree?
Having an Arts degree has positioned me at the center of many career opportunities! I’ve worked on media such as long-form journalism, video, audio, social media, blog writing, etc. that require skills valuable at many organizations.
What advice would you give to students and alumni interested in breaking into your industry?
Be open to any opportunity big or small! You never know what could inspire you or lead you towards a fulfilling or unexpected path.
What advice would you give your graduating self?
Keep your curiosity alive and welcome new experiences!
Mormei Zanke
Why did you choose your program at UBC and what did you enjoy most about it?
I came to UBC with a love for literature and interest in writing creatively. For that reason, I was drawn to pursuing a double major in both of these areas—Creative Writing and English Language and Literatures—which I found complemented and informed each other throughout my degree. What I enjoyed most was the opportunity to discuss and dissect texts spanning many centuries, and using that knowledge to further my understanding of storytelling and craft in my creative writing classes.
What were some of your most meaningful experiences at UBC?
One of my most favourite and impactful classes I took was a course in the Department of English Language and Literatures taught by Dr. Glenn Deer. The course explored the theme of food through Asian diasporic literature and film. While I didn’t know it then, this would go on to inspire a thesis project I completed during my time studying journalism at New York University. The project traced the origins of chop suey in North America while weaving in my own family history.
What choices did you make at UBC that contributed to your career success / journey?
The Arts Co-op Program was really valuable in setting me up for a future career. Both logistically—resume building, the application process, interviewing—and also skills-wise by exposing me to a variety of media opportunities that allowed me to gain technical and strategical knowledge I still use today.
What was your first job after graduation and what other jobs did you have before your current position?
My first job after graduation was as a language teacher in Japan as part of the Jet Exchange Programme. Upon returning to Canada, I worked in marketing before going on to New York University where I had various jobs in social media, podcasting, and writing.
Is your current career path as you originally intended? What challenges did you face in launching your career?
My career path has surprised me in ways I didn’t expect. While I was a student I aspired to be a writer in some professional capacity, but I didn’t know how versatile the skills of communication and storytelling could be in various fields. I think the main pivot for me was switching my perspective to be more flexible.
What do you like about your current job and what do you find challenging? How does it relate to your degree?
I love that in my current job I can use storytelling and communications to bring awareness to New York City’s natural areas. I like that it’s mission-driven work and I can use the skills I acquired during my degree to advocate for a cause I care about.
From your experience, what has been the value of having an Arts degree?
Having an Arts degree has positioned me at the center of many career opportunities! I’ve worked on media such as long-form journalism, video, audio, social media, blog writing, etc. that require skills valuable at many organizations.
What advice would you give to students and alumni interested in breaking into your industry?
Be open to any opportunity big or small! You never know what could inspire you or lead you towards a fulfilling or unexpected path.
What advice would you give your graduating self?
Keep your curiosity alive and welcome new experiences!
