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Faculty of Health

How to find your passion at UVic

Zeina Ebeid
Zeina Ebeid

Zeina Ebeid discovered her passion for technology at the University of Victoria. After graduating with a dual degree in Computer Science and Health Information Science, Ebeid returned to her hometown of Edmonton where she works as a data scientist in the private sector. Here, she reflects on her journey at UVic and the co-op placements that gave her the skills and experience needed to find work after graduating in June. She closes with some helpful advice for students approaching their final year of study.

What drew you to your studies at UVic?

I began my undergraduate studies in biological sciences with an interest in healthcare, but after taking an introductory computer science course, I discovered a passion for technology. I wanted a program that would allow me to combine both interests, and UVic’s Computer Science and Health Information Science program was the perfect blend. The program’s strong co-op focus was equally important to me, as I wanted to graduate with meaningful work experience and be well prepared for my career in a competitive industry. The opportunity to study in a beautiful city was definitely the cherry on top.

What were some highlights of your degree?

During my degree, I had many memorable experiences that shaped both my academic and personal growth. I had the opportunity to deliver a speech at a UVic donor lunch as a recipient of a scholarship, where I expressed appreciation to scholarship donors and connected with many key members of the UVic community. I also greatly valued my time volunteering with the Victoria Hand Project, helping assemble 3D-printed prosthetic arms for amputees in low-income communities.

Some of my favourite personal memories from my degree include long study sessions on the third floor of McPherson Library and late nights in Engineering and Computer Science  labs, fueled by Kicking Horse coffee from The Munchie Bar. I also found a passion for fitness at CARSA, and loved playing volleyball intramurals with my friends followed by Thursday wing nights at Felicita’s. I will always cherish my strolls through Finnerty Gardens, and spotting UVic’s campus celebrity, George the Peacock.

Can you tell us about your co-op experiences?

For my first co-op term, I worked as a virtual care analyst in the virtual care services team at Island Health, contributing to the implementation and optimization of digital care technologies across Vancouver Island. For my second co-op, I joined Alberta Health Services as a software quality assurance analyst. In this role, I tested a new provincial scheduling software used by thousands of healthcare professionals across Alberta.

You were a teaching assistant (TA) during your studies. Can you tell us about that experience?

Being a teaching assistant was a major highlight of my degree. In my second year, I worked as a TA as part of the Co-op and Career Services team to support the Introduction to Professional Practice course across seven different programs. Then, in my final semester, I supported Dr. Dillon Chrimes with HINF 230: Organizational Behaviour and Change Management. Getting to help deliver the course, and even present a few lectures, was a full-circle moment, considering I had been sitting in those exact same student seats just a few years ago.

How did your co-ops prepare you for the workplace?

My co-op experiences allowed me to build meaningful professional relationships in my field while gaining hands-on experience that I continue to draw on in my post-graduate role. I worked alongside many brilliant professionals who generously shared their expertise, mentorship, and advice; many of whom I am still connected with today. Additionally, the technical skills I developed working with different tools and technologies played a significant role in preparing me for a smooth transition from student to professional.

Do you have any advice that you’d offer to students who recently graduated or are in their final year?

After graduation, it's important to lean into relationships you’ve already built. Professors, co-op supervisors, colleagues, and even casual connections are often more valuable than you realize. You would be surprised how many doors open if you simply ask.

Your degree is what you make of it. While much of it will be lectures, assignments, and exams, the experiences you seek outside of that are just as important (arguably more important for your sanity). Your undergraduate years are a chance to try new things and discover what actually excites you. Finding that balance is essential for avoiding burnout and reminding yourself that you are, in fact, a human being and not a machine!