Brandi Anne Berry

doctoral student in the Faculty of Health Sciences

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field

I am a Métis scholar working with my community, the MIKI'SIW Métis Association and the Métis Nation of British Columbia. What motivates me to continue this work is the relationships I get to build within my community.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

After completing my MSc, I saw an opportunity to continue doing work that was meaningful to myself and to my community. My supervisors have all encouraged me and supported me, so I knew SFU would continue to be the right fit.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

I get to collaborate with youth in my community and hear what they have to say about their wellness and identity.

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

Community-directed, youth wellness, respectful 

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

Working with the VPA's office on the proposed SFU Medical School has supported the administrative and teamwork skills I needed to be successful in my PhD. You need to be able to manage multiple timelines and goals to be productive in research.

Have you been the recipient of any major or donor-funded awards? If so, please tell us which ones and a little about how the awards have impacted your studies and/or research

CIHR Canada Graduate Scholarship

What have been the most valuable lessons you've learned along your graduate student journey (or in becoming a graduate student)?

You genuinely need to learn to say "No". There will always be another opportunity, project, or gig on the horizon, but you can't take them all on. The most important thing any graduate student should know is how to take care of themselves and protect their time.

Additional Links

• LinkedIn