Ashley U, a Beedie Luminary and Applied Animal Biology student at UBC, is passionate about animal welfare, behavior, and physiology. Inspired by the motto, “You can do anything, but you can’t do everything,” she’s learning to prioritize her time and energy. Ashley values the Beedie Luminaries community, where her mentor and peers offer support, growth, and meaningful connections.
What is your field of study and why does it interest you?
Applied Animal Biology. The program includes diverse courses from animal behaviour to physiology to animal welfare, all of which I find super fascinating! It also includes the opportunity to do a practicum in various fields such as wildlife rehabilitation, animal shelter management, farm animal welfare, and more.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
“You can do anything, but you can’t do everything.” I have a tendency to overcommit, and this advice really helps me think about what my greatest priorities are and how to make the best use of my time and energy.
What would you name the autobiography of your life?
“Work in Progress”.
Do you have a motto or personal mantra?
Just do it.
What was the last experience that made you a better person?
Moving on campus and not living with my family for the first time. From grocery shopping, and cooking my own meals to living with roommates, I have learned so much from this experience.
What is something you learned in the last week?
I learned how to crochet a basket!
What’s the most important trend you see today?
People talking about mental health more openly! Where I come from, mental health issues are rarely brought up in conversations, so it is really refreshing to see this topic comes up more and more given its importance!
Who inspires you and why?
My dad. He moved to Canada even though he doesn’t know any English so my sister and I can grow up here. He always managed to find the silver lining of every situation and inspires me to be more fearless in life.
What would people be surprised to find out about you?
I have a driver’s license but I don’t know how to ride a bike!
What is your favourite thing about being a part of Beedie Luminaries?
The people. The Beedie Luminaries program has introduced me to so many amazing Luminaries. My peer group and my mentor Alysha have been such a supportive presence in my life, and I would not have been able to make those connections without this program.
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