"Treat each challenge as an experience to learn from, instead of a problem to work through."
Marina Najm
- Degree:
- Master of Applied Science
- Grad year: 2021
- Program:
- Campus: Vancouver
I have completed both a Bachelor of Applied Science and a Master of Applied Science degree in Chemical and Biological Engineering at UBC. I have adapted to a lot of changes from immigration to a long commute and balancing family responsibilities. During this time, I have committed to the high academic standards in my coursework and research, which have earned me multiple scholarships including NSERC CGS-M and the BC Graduate Student Scholarship. I enjoy learning about new methods and materials, and I always seek new places or hobbies that can show me a new aspect of life to experience.
NSERC CGS-M BC Graduate Student Scholarship
What has made your time at UBC memorable?
The memorable moments from my degree program are when I felt an increased level of independence, responsibility, and trust from my colleagues, friends, and professors.
I have spent a total of seven years at UBC; I have gotten to know the research being done, gain specific expertise during my graduate studies, and take on several projects I couldn’t have done without the guidance and knowledge I gained during my degree.
Also, as a teaching assistant, I was able to support undergraduate students through their process of problem solving in engineering courses over two years. Sharing my experiences with them after having successfully completed the same courses they are taking was very fulfilling. I appreciate the supportive teaching team I was fortunate to learn from, and I am pleased to have contributed my experiences with students who appreciate my help.
What advice would you give a student entering your degree program?
All experiences will either tell you what you enjoy or what you do not like.
Treat all challenges as an experience to make the most out of, instead of a task you’re forced to complete. Also, studying to become an engineer requires discipline and patience. The more you learn during your studies, the better equipped you will be.
How do you feel your degree has benefitted you compared to a different field of study?
The versatility of Chemical and Biological Engineering opens up paths to many career paths. Through co-op, I was able to work in renewable energy and fuel cells, as well as fluid simulations for the aerospace industry. My capstone project was focused on industrial-scale bacterial cultures producing bioplastics. Finally, my graduate research allowed me to get hands-on experience on a wide range of novel and commercial materials such as polymers, biological tissues, and adhesives.
The diversity of skills and knowledge about the different fields and materials all shape the analysis and decision making for the engineering projects I come across, and add to the bigger picture.
Where do you find your inspiration for using your degree to make an impact on our world?
I look up to the professors and doctoral students I interact with in the chemical engineering department everyday.
I am inspired by their extent of knowledge and experience. I am also motivated by the results I get after applying a new method or a new model. For example, having a discussion with a fellow researcher or student and reaching a new conclusion none of us had previously considered is a great encouragement, especially in research where there is a lot of uncertainty and questions to be answered.
