What do you love most about your profession? Why did you choose this career?
The work I am doing will contribute to a large-scale clinical trial. Through my research, I would be able to help shift and rotational workers and their health problems. When most of us are sleeping, a night worker works hard to make things available for us. Rotational workers cannot meet their families for months as they often go out of their cities to work. I believe it is an important area of research as 24-hour availability is becoming quite common in every field. My work can help governments and institutions to create friendly policies for employees at some point in future. My foremost reason for going to graduate school was to do community-related research. Planning, exploring new literature and writing is my favourite part. I love how diverse my career is, and I am working with people from the fields of biochemistry, psychology and nutrition.
What was your first job? What skills from it continue to help you in your current role?
My first job was as a Junior Nutritionist for a startup, Fertility Dost, a digital platform for managing fertility issues and hormonal health. I learned a lot about clinical nutrition during my undergrad but could not gain real-world experience. Working in this company taught me managerial and communication skills, most importantly. I learned to stand up for myself and be outspoken about my thoughts. All those qualities help me every day still.
What does your typical workday involve? Can you work remotely? (indoors/outdoors, office/plant, travel time, teamwork/solo work)?
As a graduate student, my typical day starts by coming to university in the morning. I like my space here as I interact with other students, and the environment is quite supportive. My work involves looking at emails, reading previous literature in my field and writing regarding my research is my favourite part. I also work as a Teaching Assistant in the fall and winter semesters, so I usually spend a few hours every week marking assignments. Most of my work is done on my computer and is of a solo type. I can work remotely too. I work at home some days, but most days, I am here at the university. I get to enjoy both worlds. In the evening, when I am back home, I try going for a walk and cooking dinner and lunch for tomorrow.
What is a common misconception about your field of work?
Before starting this degree, I was often told that the only career option after doing a research-based master's is to go for a Ph.D. Almost after one year, I think there are many other options one can explore outside of academia.
What do you do for fun? What are some of your hobbies/activities?
Exploring St.John's, going for small hikes and trying new cafes are my favourite activities.
What is your favorite book? Why is it your favorite?
Remnants of Separation by Aanchal Malhotra is my favourite book. It is based on the life of people who moved from and to Pakistan and India during 1947 when India became independent from British rule and divided. This area of history seems very interesting as it impacted my family too and so many other people in Punjab.
What is your favorite television show/movie?
The Crown on Netflix.
What advice would you give students who might be considering a career like yours? What advice would you have given your younger self?
Twitter and Instagram can be useful too for your graduate school application.
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