Featured Student: Lorna Tu

"Go with the flow! When I was applying for jobs, I had no idea what I wanted to do. I didn’t even know which field or type of job I wanted.

So, if future students are also unsure, it might be a good idea for them to explore everything that interests them, because they’ll never know where that will take them."

What is your field of study?

Biophysics.

Why did you choose to enroll in co-op? 

I didn’t have a plan for what to do with my degree, so co-op sounded like a great way to freely explore different job options and fields. Also, I heard that it’s difficult to get a job in science after graduation without much experience, so co-op would help fill in the gaps.

Which positions did you work during co-op?

My first position was at the Genome Institute of Singapore, where I worked on a computational genomics project as a research assistant. For my second one, I was a research assistant working on biophotonics with the International Collaboration of Repair Discoveries here in Vancouver.

Would you recommend an international co-op placement to other students? Why?

For sure! I went to Singapore for a placement and it has been the highlight of my university experience. It was sort of a rite of passage for me, because I grew up in Vancouver and was never away from home by myself for so long before. It was scary at first, but it helped me become more independent. I also got to travel to many other countries and make lasting friendships along the way (and of course, learn a lot about science!)

What advice would you offer future co-op students?

Go with the flow! When I was applying for jobs, I had no idea what I wanted to do. I didn’t even know which field or type of job I wanted. So, if future students are also unsure, it might be a good idea for them to explore everything that interests them, because they’ll never know where that will take them.

What are you looking forward to after graduation?

More research, (after a much needed break from school!)

Published: August 3 2022