The Faculty of Education has an amazing cadre of staff who help the Faculty run smoothly and effectively. Each month, Education Update will highlight a new staff member.
This month we are featuring Michael Wilkinson, Executive Assistant to the Senior Associate Dean, Dean’s Office.
- How long have you worked with the Faculty of Education?
I have worked in the Faculty of Education since April of this year, so I am a very recent addition! That brings me to about 3 and a half months.
- Can you summarize what you do in the Faculty of Education?
I am the Executive Assistant to Dr. Mary Bryson, who is the Senior Associate Dean, Administration, Faculty Affairs & Innovation. Most of what I do in the Faculty of Education is supporting Dr. Bryson’s portfolio, which is very widespread –from the Promotion & Tenure process to Faculty Searches and Hiring, as well as arranging their calendar and meetings. But I also get to work on a lot of interesting projects in the Faculty, from supporting with Congress in June, to administrative assistance with CampOUT!, and providing support on the Dean’s Task Force on Race, Indigeneity, and Social Justice. As I said, the work is very widespread, which is one of the best parts of the job!
- What is your favourite thing about working at UBC?
Working on such a beautiful campus! We are so privileged to be able to work on Musqueam land, and I always find myself appreciating its beauty whenever I am walking around UBC.
- What is one moment this past year that was truly memorable?
Getting to know the two wonderful women with whom I get to share an office – Faustina and Precilia. They are the best!
- What is your go-to karaoke song?
“Somebody to Love” by Queen.
- If you could travel anywhere in the world next week, where would you want to go?
Japan! Or Montreal, to visit my sister.
- If you could only watch one movie for the rest of your life, what would it be?
This is so cliché, but probably Titanic.
- How do you like to recharge after a week at work?
Enjoying the outdoors! I love walking along the sea wall, spending time in parks or on beaches, going on hikes in the Lower Mainland, or maybe taking a short weekend trip to somewhere close-by in BC. We are so lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the world, so I feel the need to take in as much of it as I can.
- On your commute what are you most likely listening to?
I’ve recently been enjoying Spotify’s “Release Radar” which updates every week with new music by artists I follow. It’s a good way of listening to new music, otherwise, I’ll end up listening to Ariana Grande on repeat.
- What kinds of hobbies and interests do you have outside of work?
Live theatre! I performed a lot in musicals and plays growing up, and although I don’t perform very often any more, I love going to theatre in and around Vancouver. My most recent recommendation is Newsies at Theatre Under the Stars in Stanley Park – it’s great!
