Sarra Pirmohamed

Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology master's student in the Faculty of Science

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

I have always been interested in physical activity and wanted to share this passion with everyone. Through the close relationships with my grandparents and older adults at my volunteer endeavours, I have realized the importance and necessity of sharing this passion with this population. Throughout my undergraduate degree, I developed a deeper appreciation and understanding of the physiology and science behind the benefits of physical activity, and hope to implement these learnings in my academic and professional undertakings.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

I appreciate how SFU is close to home and surrounded my nature which are both very important to me. The BPK department is also wonderful and I was very interested in working and collaborating with the people there. Lastly, the offering of the accelerated masters option was a deciding factor for me, as I have always been interested in research and getting involved early.

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

The aim of my research is to create a Core Outcome Set (COS) which is a standardized list of outcomes to measure in all randomized controlled trials of physical activity for older adults. To do this, I will conduct an interactive multi-round survey, called a Delphi survey, with older adults, researchers, and healthcare professionals to determine which outcomes are essential to measure in these trials. The COS I generate will open doors for increased meta-analysis and strengthen evidence that can be implemented into practice within healthcare and health promotion.

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

Physical Activity, Older adults, Health Promotion

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

Through my courses, co-op experience, and extracurricular activities, I have been able to explore what I enjoy and have a passion for. This has allowed me explore different professional and academic fields to find the one that best fits my interests and values. It is because of these experiences that I know I want to work with older adults in a health promotion setting. I am so grateful for the opportunities and how they have brought me to where I am today!

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

I am a recipient of the CIHR-CGSM award.

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

In becoming a graduate student, I have been relearning how setbacks are a natural part of any journey and that uncertainty is okay. In surrounding yourself with knowledgeable and supportive people, getting through the tough spots doesn’t end up being so bad. I have really been appreciating the community aspect of my department and how it is essential in helping you move forward and succeed.

What are some tips for balancing your academic and personal life?

I always do my best to take mindful breaks and spend as much as time outdoors as possible as I find that this helps me to recharge. Also, spending time with people I love is very fulfilling and inspiring, so I dedicate a lot of my time to this as well.

Contact Sarra:Sarra_pirmohamed@sfu.ca

Additional Links

• LinkedIn

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