Hometown: Richmond, BC
Program: Genetic Counselling
Karen Jacob
What attracted you to your field?
Our field is so interesting, dynamic, exciting and fast-paced. It is such an exciting time for genetics as it is evolving so quickly. The genetics of today is not the same as the genetics of even five years ago. Combine that with clinical applications to patients and families in need, and you have the perfect career for me.
In 10 years, what UBC moment will you still be talking about?
This is actually my third UBC degree and so I have many moments that I will be talking about. Storm the Wall put on by UBC Rec has always been one of my favourite UBC events.
What’s next for you?
I have taken a position working for the Provincial Medical Genetics Program in St. John’s, Newfoundland. I am very excited to explore Canada’s other coast.
As you look ahead, what (or who) inspires you?
So many things and people inspire me in different aspects of my life. In terms of my career right now, my classmates and colleagues at UBC inspire me most of all, as they all work so hard and have achieved so many great things.
Name one thing on your bucket list.
There are so many things on my bucket list! Last summer I was fortunate enough to travel to Pangnirtung, Nunavut, where I was carrying out a chart review. Pangnirtung is one of the gateways to the Auyuittuq National Park where you can hike to the Arctic Circle Marker and visit Thor Peak, an incredible mountain like no other on earth, thought to be the world’s greatest vertical drop. I was not able to visit the park on my last visit, but I plan on going back as soon as I can.