Asian Studies Alumni Spotlight Featuring Julia Chalifoux

Interested in what you can do with a degree in Asian Studies? In our Alumni Spotlight Interview Series, we ask our alumni about their career paths, how they became interested in Asian Studies and for any advice they would give to current students. This interview features Julia Chalifoux, UBC Asian Studies BA’2004.

Could you go into some detail about your career path until now?

After graduating from UBC in 2004, I took half a year off, looked for work and then decided to enroll in the Publishing Techniques & Technologies program at Langara College. After graduating from Langara, I spent my first year working as a production assistant and graphic designer for a Vancouver based magazine. I then changed jobs and worked for seven and a half years in the creative services department at a local newspaper. I am now self-employed and am publishing my own publication.

How did you get your first job after graduating?

About 4 months before graduating from Langara, I decided to search for an internship. I spent several days in front of the computer, writing emails and introducing myself to countless magazine publishers. Out of all those emails came one interview and what became my first internship. I worked part-time as an unpaid intern while finishing off my last term of school, and when the school year ended that internship turned into my first paid job in publishing.

How has an Asian Studies degree helped you in your endeavors?

Having an in-depth understanding of another culture and their language that comes through study and experience is (in my mind) of unparalleled significance.

To have an open mind, to be able to see and to appreciate alternative ideas and perspectives and finally to recognize the oneness that we all ultimately share is huge.

Are there any opportunities in your field?

I think there are opportunities in design and publishing. Although it is getting continually more competitive and employers are seeking more and more skills tied into one job. Graphic Designers are now expected to have a multitude of skills, which would have at one time be considered separate jobs all together.

This is not meant to be discouraging. It is just the reality.

That being said, I think it is important to recognize and stay committed to your interests, strengths and passions. Most industries recognize the importance of specialists, and design should be no different.

What can students/recent graduates do to get a foot in your industry?

• Make sure technical skills are up to date.

• Have portfolio and resume ready. Having a physical and online version of both is highly recommended.

• Get some experience. Seek out an internship and/or find individuals that you can job shadow.

• Seek help. If you are struggling with any of the above, seek out someone who can assist you. If you don’t ask, you often won’t get, so don’t be shy. This is your future, it is important to be as pro-active as you can.

In your field what does a typical entry level position entail?

Entry level positions are often not “dream jobs”. As an intern I was assigned tasks such as fact checking, type-setting, small ad design and general office duties such as mailing and emailing. Over time, I was given more responsibility and my job description diversified.

Do you have any other advice that you would like to impart to students/recent graduates? 

Be persistent, stay passionate and don’t be afraid to ask for help.