Jiin Yoo
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I chose to pause my academic journey to be fully present with my newborn, but I never imagined that pause would last so long! Parenting was both enriching and challenging—and, ironically, it brought me back to academia with renewed passion and purpose. In particular, homeschooling my two children for four years as a transnational family exposed me to different values and practices, often marked by tensions, conflicts, and subtle forms of oppression. These experiences prompted me to reflect on how to honour difference, promote equity, and make learning a meaningful and lifelong process, which ultimately inspired me to return to graduate studies in search of answers.
Why did you decide to study at ÑÇÖÞÌìÌÃ?
Back in 2018, I travelled across Canada—from Victoria to Quebec—to visit top-tier universities that had offered me admission to their MA programs. ÑÇÖÞÌìÌà stood out immediately. I was drawn to its welcoming atmosphere, the strength and diversity of its faculty, its world-class research environment, and the exceptional support provided to graduate students. What truly sealed the decision, however, was the stunning campus—nestled between ancient forests and the Pacific Ocean— a place that has continued to inspire my learning over the years.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
I was drawn to the rich and diverse range of courses offered by the Department of Educational Studies, which aligned closely with my interests in equity, lifelong learning, and social justice. I was also inspired by the work of faculty members whose scholarship and teaching deeply resonated with my academic goals.
What was the best surprise about ÑÇÖÞÌìÌà or life in Vancouver?
I was pleasantly surprised and deeply inspired by the program’s open and vibrant learning atmosphere. The hands-on, learner-centred approach to teaching, along with a strong commitment to incorporating critical perspectives—especially Indigenous histories and ways of knowing—offered an eye-opening and truly transformative, educational experience.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I really value the student-centred and collaborative initiatives in Educational Studies, such as the Doctoral Colloquium and Research Day. These spaces allow graduate students to share their research, receive feedback, and exchange ideas, motivations, and encouragement. Through these events, I’ve gained deeper insights into theories and methodologies across diverse research contexts. More importantly, they’ve fostered a strong sense of connection and belonging among peers. I believe, in a journey that can often feel isolating, these opportunities help build a supportive academic community.
What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) in your future career?
I’m passionate about research and teaching, and I hope to continue both after completing my doctoral program. However, pursuing an academic career has become increasingly uncertain—shaped by shifting political climates, funding constraints, and the rapid rise of generative AI, which adds a new layer of complexity to the evolving landscape of higher education. To navigate these changes while staying true to my values, I feel the need to continuously reconceptualize what it means to ‘teach,’ ‘research,’ and ‘learn’—so I can build an authentic academic identity and contribute meaningfully as an educator.
How do you feel your program is preparing you for those challenges?
There are strong collective efforts within my program to support graduate students in navigating their future careers. I appreciate the opportunities to learn from alumni who are working across diverse sectors, including those beyond academia. These conversations have helped me envision various career paths and how I might contribute. Personally, I’ve been able to strengthen both my research and teaching skills through roles such as research assistant and teaching assistant—opportunities generously supported by my department and my supervisor, Dr. Hongxia Shan. Together, these experiences have equipped me with greater confidence and a broader set of competencies to face future challenges.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your ÑÇÖÞÌìÌà graduate program?
Before graduate school, I worked as a project manager and director in the IT industry across South Korea and Japan, and played a key role in co-founding a venture company in Japan. These cross-cultural, cross-lingual business experiences unexpectedly became a tremendous asset, helping me navigate complex contexts, communicate across differences, and manage multiple stakeholders with efficiency—skills that now support my research and academic collaborations. In addition, my interdisciplinary academic background—in education, psychology, and international studies—equips me with broad perspectives that enrich both my own research and collaborative projects. I’ve come to appreciate how diverse, seemingly unrelated experiences can converge to become a powerful foundation for academic growth.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I rely on a range of activities that uplift both body and spirit—essential sources of energy that sustain my academic life. I particularly enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the ÑÇÖÞÌìÌà campus and across British Columbia. Running and biking along Vancouver’s stunning coastline have become part of my regular routine, and I also love skiing on Whistler’s incredible trails. These spaces never fail to recharge me, offering precious moments to reflect, reset, and find clarity amid the complex ideas I encounter in my studies.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
When I first started graduate studies at ÑÇÖÞÌìÌà as an international student, I was nervous about my English and unfamiliarity with the Canadian academic system. Although eager to participate, I often doubted whether I had anything meaningful to contribute. Looking back, I realize that every student admitted to ÑÇÖÞÌìÌà brings unique strengths—shaped by their cultural backgrounds, life experiences, and diverse perspectives. My advice: trust in your value, be open to learning, and actively share your voice. The more you engage and contribute, the more rewarding your graduate journey will be.
