An occupational therapist well known and respected for her roles in clinical practice, hospital leadership, and professional association advocacy work, Sarabjeet Charchun, was already well into a full and dynamic career when she returned to UBC to study in the online Masters in Rehabilitation Science (MRSc) program. Sarabjeet was looking into investment in herself while fulfilling a promise and creating greater impacts at her workplace (Surrey Memorial Hospital, Fraserhealth) and beyond. Her work, family responsibilities, and commuting logistics made enrolling in a traditional ‘in-person’ program unrealistic, thus, she quickly adapted to the online MRSc learning environment.
Through her coursework, Sarabjeet’s confidence in scrutinizing and applying literature in her clinical and leadership work grew, as did the writing skills she needed for her operational, supervisory, and advocacy works.
“Whether it is through the lens of being a clinician, an operational leader, or a researcher, the MRSc program has changed how I will evaluate, implement, and create new knowledge”.
During her time in the program, Sarabjeet balanced many ongoing and unexpected life events, both at work and home (layered with a pandemic) and was able to get through the challenging times with the flexibility and understanding of the program instructors. Her main strategy was not to overthink assignments but to start writing to get her ideas and thoughts flowing.
Sarabjeet is grateful that she ultimately decided to complete the major project course option after receiving mentorship advice that “research work will change the way you think”. It has done just that for Sarabjeet and she is excited about the further contributions she will make to her profession and the world of rehabilitation.
Sarabjeet’s advice to others? “If you are thinking about it, do it. It is an investment in yourself and your growth as a clinician and as a person. An accomplishment you will always be proud of…just as I am.” And so you should be Sarabjeet, well done, and congratulations!