In this Q&A, we're spotlighting the meaningful contributions of Work Learn students at Innovation UBC. UBC's Work Learn Program supports and subsidizes meaningful work experiences on and off campus, offering current UBC Vancouver students the opportunity to develop their professional skills in a real work environment.
We're incredibly lucky to work alongside students who bring fresh perspectives and new energy to everything we do. In this feature, we're excited to introduce Kriesha Pradhan (she/her), who has been with us as our Engagement Assistant since September 2025.
Can you describe your role and responsibilities during your Work Learn position with Innovation UBC?
As an Engagement Assistant at Innovation UBC, my responsibilities are pretty diverse. Within the engagement team, we primarily focus on facilitating collaboration between mentors and ventures in our programs and to ensure the mentor experience is meaningful and effective. The projects I have worked on have also expanded into analyzing the researcher experience — identifying gaps in available resources, understanding what support is needed, and directly contributing to building those resources. It's a role that keeps me engaged across multiple fronts, and no two weeks look the same.
Reflecting on your time with Innovation UBC, what was a key learning moment or insight you gained?
One of the most valuable insights I've gained is just how much you can learn by simply being in the room. Attending in-person events where ventures pitch to mentors and investors exposed me to a wide range of industries and problems I hadn't even known existed from health and tech to operations and climate.
Of the projects or experiences you were part of, which one stands out as the most meaningful or your favorite, and why?
Supporting the creation of the Inventor's Guide was my most meaningful project. Through a previous project, I had learnt just how unique and complex the research and commercialization process can look like for every researcher. So, we built a resource specifically for inventors from the ground up: mapping out different commercialization pathways, support systems at Innovation UBC, and doing a deep-dive into UBC's IP policies. It was really rewarding to take what felt like an overwhelming and complicated process and distill it into something streamlined and accessible.
Based on your experiences, what advice would you offer to future Work Learn students to make the most out of their time with Innovation UBC?
There's always so much happening at Innovation UBC, so show up to the events, talk to the mentors and listen to the pitches because there is so much to learn in those moments. There is also a lot of room to try your hand at new projects and collaborate across different teams, so take those opportunities when they come. The work is genuinely engaging, and you definitely won't be bored!
We're hiring — apply by March 25
Are you a current UBC student looking to gain hands-on experience in engagement strategy, community building, and network support? We're currently hiring a Work Learn student to join the Innovation UBC team this summer. Apply for Job ID #994805 on the UBC Work Learn job board — you'll need your CWL login to access the posting. Applications close March 25, 2026.
