To start off, say a little about yourself, your interests, undergraduate degree and what you are doing now?  “Hi! I’m Ishtar, an Electrical and Computer Engineering Masters student at UNB. My research focuses on biomedical engineering, so I work at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering (IBME). My undergraduate degree was also at UNB in electrical engineering. I quite enjoy my research work, but in my free time, I love to be an avid member in my community. Through playing an instrument in my community concert band, promoting my culture through events across Fredericton, and playing with the IBME Ultimate Frisbee team, I try to keep my mind, body, and social network active. I am currently wrapping up my Masters degree, and I’m excited about what the future holds in store for me!” 

Why did you decide to purse a MscE?  “I’ve always had my sights set on a higher education than a BSc, and have known for years that working in the biomedical field was the path for me. At UNB, no official degree in biomedical engineering exists, but IBME is one of the world’s most renowned research and clinical facility, so naturally I was thrilled to be a part of the team to pursue my Masters degree.” 

Have there been any extracurricular organizations that have impacted your journey on and off campus?  “I believe that having a well‑rounded life is important, and as such, I have followed and been a part of many activities and groups that spark my interest. One such group is IEEE, which has ties to electrical engineers across the globe.  Through my chair position of the UNB-IBME chapter, I was able to expand my participation and become one of the organizational team members of an IEEE Women in Engineering International Leadership Summit. It was quite rewarding to promote the option for women to become engineers and enjoy engineering and I was motivated to close this gap further. Educating people about engineering begins with youth, so promoting science, electrical and biomedical engineering to kids through IBME and UNB initiatives also impacts me, and hopefully makes a difference in the kids’ lives along the road.”

What would your best advice be to incoming students interested in graduate school?  “If I were to meet an incoming graduate student, my advice to them would be to have a support team, which should include themselves. The difference between undergraduate and graduate studies comes from the student. There are ups and downs, but it is important to remember your reason behind pursuing a graduate degree. Also remember that you are not alone and talking through academic and other problems with students like you will help everyone involved tremendously. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.”

How did you gain experience in the you field during your undergrad in order to better your chances of being a successful applicant?  “Throughout my undergrad, I participated in as many extracurricular activities as I liked (you can sense a theme here). I believe this helped me develop myself and helped me understand what I wanted to do. Of course, I focused on my studies and kept my grades up, which is also quite important. Particularly, I sought out subjects that followed my plan of entering the biomedical engineering field. Once again, talking to others helped, especially professors that work in the field.” 

What were some of your favourite study methods you used during undergrad?  “My favourite study method in undergrad was definitely studying with friends. While it took discipline to focus on studies some days, it was beneficial having a support system to learn and grow together.”

Ishtar can be reached at ishtar.altahir@unb.ca for further questions.