I chose Film Studies and Creative Writing because I love storytelling, and I love the power of the stories we chose to share. What I enjoyed the most about my program was having engaged discussions with my peers.

What were some of your most meaningful experiences at UBC?

My time working as a Jump Start Orientation Leader was one of my most fulfilling experiences at UBC. Being able to help new students navigate this new era in their lives, and help them find their place within our large community, always brought a smile to my face.

What choices did you make at UBC that contributed to your career success / journey?

Remaining engaged with the community. I always tried to find ways to express myself in the company of fellow UBC community members. Whether that was through clubs, passion projects, or even study groups, being out there connecting with people definitely opened doors for me I would not have even noticed otherwise, such as recommending me for jobs in the industry and introducing me to key industry folks.

What was your first job after graduation and what other jobs did you have before your current position?

I worked mostly as a Freelance Diversity Consultant for the first few months after graduation. I worked with non-profits such as the Vancouver Latin American Cultural Centre, as well as cultural spaces such as the Museum of Anthropology. I currently work with the Directors Guild of Canada as their Member Services and Equity Coordinator.

Is your current career path as you originally intended? What challenges did you face in launching your career?

My career path is still evolving. I consider where I am the first step of many. As someone who started their professional journey outside of university in the middle of a pandemic, it was difficult to put myself out there to face the constant rejection of our current labour climate. However, my friends and connections I made during my school days really helped with opportunities that allowed me to build my experience, either with part-time job opportunities or facilitating networking, until the right position came along.

What do you like about your current job and what do you find challenging? How does it relate to your degree?

As the DGC BC Member Services and Equity Coordinator, I work closely with our Executive Director and our Directors Advisory Committee to promote and support BC Film Directors. As well, I work to advance our Equity and Diversity initiatives. I am fortunate that my background in Film Studies allows me to understand the nuances of the film industry and how to best cater to the needs of those involved in it.

What I find the most challenging is finding a work/life balance when working from home. It can be difficult to leave the work out of the home when your office is your bedroom. I don’t think I am an expert yet, but it helps to make a routine at the end of my work day that marks that transition – such as drinking tea with my roommates in the living room.

From your experience, what has been the value of having an Arts degree?

An Arts degree allows you to reinterpret what it means to learn. My Arts degree allowed me to shape my academic path in the best way for my learning type, and pushed me to seek more answers and challenge perspectives. From courses that discuss matters I would not have encountered otherwise, to clubs and community spaces where people from all walks of life got to share their story.

What advice would you give to students and alumni interested in breaking into your industry?

People want to know you, and people want to talk with you. It can be daunting to reach out to your professional idol, or someone who is in a similar path as who you want to be; but more often than not, people want to get to know young filmmakers and storytellers, and they want to provide a platform for their stories.

What advice would you give to your first-year self?

You are not the only one who is just a little too overwhelmed. It is okay to breathe, take a step back, and start again.