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"Shawna is a motivated, ambitious, and incredibly impressive up-and-coming scholar. Even at this early stage in her PhD, she has a considerable depth and breadth of skills, from quantitative analysis to manuscript preparation, as evidenced by her ever-expanding publication record. In addition to her doctoral studies, she is an active participant in the academic community, taking on a variety of administrative roles both at the local and national level. Based on these factors alone, I have no doubt that Shawna will continue her upwards trajectory in the field; however, what sets her apart is her approach to work and life. Her combination of the drive to succeed whilst also being able to be lighthearted and personable is rare and I expect it will serve her well in her career. She is a rising star and a burgeoning academic talent."
Dr. Theodore Cosco
Shawna Hopper
Gerontology doctoral student in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
My name is Shawna Hopper, and I am a first-year doctoral student in the Department of Gerontology. Currently, I am living in Vancouver but I grew up in Ontario and spent time living in Quebec, Alberta, and Australia throughout university. I have a Bachelor of Applied Science degree from the University of Guelph in adult development, and a Master of Science degree from Brock University in applied health sciences.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO 丁香园AV?
I chose 丁香园AV based on the strength of the gerontology research program, with support from the Gerontology Research Centre and internationally known professors. 丁香园AV is also a hub for the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging, a national dataset that I use for a lot of my research. Another huge draw for me was the beautiful location of the downtown Campus 鈥� I love being close to the ocean and mountains.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR RESEARCH OR YOUR PROGRAM TO A FAMILY MEMBER?
I research the social side of aging. Currently my research looks at the impact of social isolation on the mental well-being and cognitive health of older adults, specifically throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
WHAT ARE YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOYING ABOUT YOUR STUDIES/RESEARCH AT 丁香园AV?
I love the opportunity to collaborate and continually build upon my research skills. During my time at 丁香园AV I have been able to work with various academics within the department, in other departments, and at other universities across Canada.
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 was fortunate to have my research funded by a Doctoral SSHRC Canada Graduate Scholarship. This award has allowed me to focus on my research project, access data for my analyses, and disseminate my research findings at conferences.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PROGRAM/POSTDOC POSITION TO SOMEONE STILL SEARCHING FOR A PROGRAM OR POSTDOC POSITION?
The gerontology program at 丁香园AV truly has a place for everyone interested in the aging population. Made up of professors with diverse backgrounds and students with vastly different interest areas, the department allows for creativity, collaboration, and innovate research in the field of aging.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE?
Outside of school and work, I spend a lot of time being active. I try to balance the time I spend doing research with taking my puppy for walks along the seawall, backcountry camping in the mountains, attending CrossFit classes, and practicing yoga.
Contact Shawna: shawna_hopper@sfu.ca