Q&A: Brianna Forbes, UNB Alumni Student Leadership Recipient
Author: UNB student, Brianna Forbes
Posted on Oct 26, 2020
Category: Young Alumni , UNB Saint John , Inspiring Stories
UNB Saint John biology-psychology student, Brianna Forbes, is a strong leader on campus and in her community. She has served as student representative on the UNB Board of Governors, as well as SASE representative on the Students’ Representative Council, and has also been an active member of UNB MEDLIFE, UNB World University Service of Canada and UNB Global Brigades. A three year-member of the UNB REDS Track and field program, Brianna’s dedication to the sport has been recognized through academic all Canadian status and as an AUS medalist. Recipient of a 2020 Alumni Student Leadership Award, she shares how the award has positively impacted her UNB experience and how she contributes to student life.
What inspired or influenced you to enroll in UNB Saint John’s faculty of science?
From a young age, I was always interested in the natural world around me. Science and the living world fascinated me, motivating me to pursue a degree in biology-psychology. At UNB Saint John, I knew I would have the opportunity to learn from some of Canada’s top scientists coupled with small class sizes and exciting experiential opportunities. I knew UNBSJ’s science program would successfully prepare me for my future career ambitions.
What are you enjoying most about the marine semester program in St. Andrews, NB?
As a biology-psychology major, I never imagined that I would be taking part in the Marine Semester program. Thus far, this experience has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to be involved in a hands-on learning experience in the midst of COVID-19. One of the most rewarding aspects of the program is being able to conduct my own research experiment for the directed studies course.
How do you stay involved in student life on campus?
I have always been incredibly passionate about being involved on campus and in my community. Given the current situation, I find joy in spending time with classmates within the marine semester “bubble” on the Huntsman campus, taking walks to downtown St. Andrews, as well as making much-needed visits to the aquarium to see the seals.
Can you share one of your fondest or most memorable moments at UNB thus far?
One of my fondest memories at UNB thus far took place in Chandala Honduras, where we participated in the Global Brigades trip to build a water system for a community in need. When we finished our trench, we chanted “U-N-B” in unison, over and over with the children in the community. This moment was so special and is one I will remember for the rest of my life.
How has receiving the Alumni Student Leadership Award positively impacted your UNB experience?
Receiving this award has allowed me to focus more on my schooling, while not being as worried about finances. This has allowed me to focus on learning comfortably and enjoying all that the UNB marine semester, the Huntsman, and Saint Andrews have to offer!
What makes you Proudly UNB?
I am very thankful, and very Proudly UNB, as the University of New Brunswick, with all the institution’s staff and students, has helped point me in the direction of where I have always imagined my life to go. I will help others shape their futures at UNB through my knowledge, experience and guidance, just as others at this institution have done for me. This is where I made my connections with others. This is where my support was and where I knew I had the resources to make my dreams come true. For these reasons, I am proudly UNB.
What are you looking forward to in the future after you’ve completed undergraduate degree?
In the future, I have the goal of attending AVC to become a veterinarian and own my own practice. I feel as though UNB has provided me with the necessary experiences to be successful in this next chapter of my life and am so excited for what’s to come!
How do you think you’ll stay connected to UNB in the future as an alumna?
In the future, I will engage in the U35 Young Alumni Network by attending events, connecting with fellow UNB grads, and attending opportunities to socialize, network and build professional relationships. Upon graduation, and throughout my life to follow, I will always wear my UNB gear with pride wherever I go and will tell stories of my experiences at UNB to friends, peers, and for generations of my family to come.
Watch Brianna's UNB Alumni takeover on Instagram.
Learn more about the Alumni Student Leadership Award.