Joel Liman, LFS Aboriginal Student Coordinator

Joel Liman, LFS Aboriginal Student Coordinator

Jul 15, 2015

LFS Work Learn student Jennifer Wu sat down with LFS/Science Aboriginal Student Coordinator Joel Liman to discover what inspires him about working with the Faculty.

How long have you been with the Faculty of Land & Food Systems?

I’ve been with LFS for a year and a half. I’m also an alumni of the Faculty as I completed a Masters of Integrated Studies in Land and Food Systems.

What is your role as LFS Aboriginal Student Coordinator?

I outreach to Aboriginal communities and participate in projects that promote Aboriginal students’ education and careers. I’m also in charge of recruitment for older Aboriginal students who are considering enrollment in the Faculty of Land & Food Systems and the Faculty of Science. I’m a Student Advisor for special programming and degree programs as well.

What piece of advice do you often give to students?

I always encourage my students to remember their dreams and passions and to never lose sight of them. I also remind them to set realistic academic goals.

Are you part of any committees/organizations within and outside of UBC?

I am part of various Aboriginal initiatives at UBC, such as the Aboriginal Recruitment and Retention Committee for the Centre for Excellence and Indigenous Health, and the Aboriginal Strategic Initiatives committee.

I understand that your Masters of Science research was focused on botany and traditional knowledge. How did you become interested in these subjects?

In high school, I worked with a mentor who was an Aboriginal traditional healer. I became interested after getting the chance to work with him and learning about traditional plant medicines.

What does a non-workday typically look like for you?

I love to hang out with my family. I love music as well and play a variety of instruments, but mostly guitar.

If you were to choose between the two superpowers, super strength or ability to fly, which one would you choose to have?

I would choose the ability to fly. It would be nice to see what the world is like from that perspective.

Are there any special events or festivals in Vancouver that you love to attend?

I like to play music and watch music performances, so I really like the Folk Fest. I also love going to Italian Days and the Car Free Festival in the Commercial Drive neighbourhood.