Meet Polina Orlov

Sampling zooplankton in a narrow inlet running through the heart of the city.

Polina Orlov graduated with Bachelor of Science, a degree in Combined Major in Science: Life Science, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Science from University of British Columbia. She currently works as a Master's Student in Biological Oceanography at University of British Columbia. In her spare time, Polina likes to be outdoors skiing, hiking, and camping.

When did your love of STEM begin?

Probably when I first started learning and excelling at math problems in elementary school. I remember I found it extremely rewarding getting the right answer. To me, solving equations felt more like a fun game and less like schoolwork. Later in my education, I moved away from the need to always having the right answer and developed an interest for human physiology, but it was not until university that I started to really appreciate learning about environment, particularly the ocean. I continue to be fascinated and inspired every day studying marine science.

What is the best part about working in the field of STEM?

The best part for me is getting to explore the natural world! I grew up in a family of accountants and finance-related workers so getting paid to explore the ocean is very unprecedented and exciting for me. It is absolutely amazing to be able to look at something, wonder why it is the way it is, and then work towards finding the answers. On top of that, I love being surrounded by others in STEM that share my passions and get excited about marine life.

What advice would you give young women interested in a career in STEM?

Find others to inspire you, especially other women in STEM. When you are faced with difficulties, remember it is perfectly okay to lean on others for support and accept their help. Often times, women feel the need to prove they can reach all their goals on their own, but that it doesn't have to always be that way. Look up to your role models and help others around you, and you will succeed!