In this new series, we are excited to introduce you to the people behind CapaCITY/É. For this month’s feature, we caught up with our departing research assistant, Sofia Georgopoulos, to discuss her experience at CapaCITY/É and her upcoming academic adventures in Ireland.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and the journey that originally brought you to CapaCITY/É.
My name is Sofia Georgopoulos, and I just graduated from my BSc with a specialization in Kinesiology from Queen’s University. I participated in the research mini stream program which initially brought me to the CapaCITY/É project with Dr. Tomasone as my supervisor! She was a very supportive and encouraging mentor throughout this process.
What attracted you to apply for this position with CapaCITY/É?
I applied to work in this research because it offered the opportunity to engage with a new field of research I had not previously considered. I was interested in expanding my understanding of sustainable transportation in the Canadian context and to gain experience working in implementation science. After my initial work as a research intern, I found I really enjoyed the field and was excited to continue as a research assistant. As well as, do my thesis on equitable considerations of sustainable transportation within the CapaCITY/É project.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and the journey that originally brought you to CapaCITY/É.
I really liked the idea of engaging in research that connects directly to real-world impact. Sustainable transportation is an important and very relevant issue in Canada right now and I wanted to learn more about the current position many Canadian cities are in. Implementation science also caught my attention because it focuses on all aspects of implementation and how change actually happens. It’s very multi-layered with so many different factors to consider and document.
What was the most valuable thing you learned from your time as a research assistant at CapaCITY/É?
One of the most valuable things I learned throughout my time with CapaCITY/É was how important organization is, especially when working on multiple aspects of a project at once. For my thesis on analyzing current equity considerations and strategies for AAA cycling networks within Canadian cities, having an organized data table is what helped me compile with the proper information. Overall it led me to relevant results. This was also very applicable when extracting data for both AAA cycling network and Speed management cases. I also learned how much clear communication and attention to detail matter when you’re working with a team.
Where is your journey taking you next, and how do you see your time at CapaCITY/É shaping your future path?
My next step is dental school at Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland this September. While it is a very different field, the organization, documentation, and communication skills I gained through this experience are very much applicable for my future. Those skills along with my expanded knowledge on equity will assist me with dentistry, in how I approach patient care and treating those with different needs.
Can you share something interesting about yourself that isn’t on your resume?
I really enjoy cooking! It’s a fun pastime of mine away from work and school, especially when I’m cooking for others.