Contact & People

Darasimi is a second-year student, majoring in chemistry. She is super excited to be a Student Representative on the Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science Council for their second year.

As a Student Representative, Darasimi strives to ensure that the unique perspectives of her peers are being considered, and the issues they face are brought to the attention of the Faculty Council ouncil during the decision making process. Part of her responsibilities includes connecting and consulting with fellow students, attending and contributing to Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science meetings, and being part of the council votes.

Outside of school, Darasimi also enjoys music, particularly BTS and Red Velvet as well as reading. She is happy to talk to students about anything, UBC Okanagan Science-related or not.

Email: Daraki22@student.ubc.ca

Pak Lam (Justin) Chan is in the first year of his Master’s degree in Data Science having graduated with distinction in Computing Science. Justin was nominated for the Lieutenant Governor’s Medal by Thompson Rivers University in 2022 and is currently a Founder/Project Manager at an AI data collector startup.

Justin serves as a Graduate Student Representative for the Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science Council. His responsibilities include collecting feedback and concerns that students may want to raise and advocating for them in the faculty meeting. Justin also contributes to decision-making at the University of British Columbia by collaborating with students and faculty members to establish and revise policies, practices, and general direction for the teaching and research activities.

Academia aside, Justin enjoys photography, cycling, Taekwondo, developing software and attending tech-related events. He is delighted to serve as a Faculty Council Student Representative this year to enhance the student experience on campus and to contribute to the development of UBC’s Science Faculty.

Email: chanpaklam321@gmail.com

Portiaa is a third-year PhD student in biology. She is excited to take on the role of a Graduate Student Representative this year.

As a Graduate Student Representative, one of Portiaa’s main duties is to attend Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science Faculty Council meetings, during which she will be able to second motions, propose new motions, vote on all motions presented, and provide a voice that represents the perspective of a large group of students during discussions that help determine the direction of teaching and research activities of the Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science.

Outside of academics, Portiaa enjoys cooking, reading, travelling, and spending time outdoors. She is very happy to serve as a Faculty Council Student Representative this year and looks forward to hearing from and advocating for Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science graduate students.

Email: portiaa.mcgonigal@ubc.ca

Xavier is a first year Science student from Singapore, looking to major in Earth and

Environmental Sciences. As an international student, he is more aware than most about the struggles of balancing studies and other aspects of life.

By attending faculty meetings and  partaking in council votes as a Student Representative, Xavier aims to help participate in the decision-making process with the students in mind. Additionally, he believes that while engaging in discussion is important for progress and improvements, a point of discussion is required for this to happen. By providing a listening ear for students’ feedback, Xavier aims to be a voice for students, providing different perspectives for the Faculty Council discussions.

In his free time, Xavier tends to be found dancing and playing the piano. He is always interested in trying out new and fun activities, and loves to live in the moment.

Email: xchanghs.ubc@gmail.com