Meet Andy — Using his background in business technology to improve clinical trials administration.
Q: What is your role in health research?
A: I currently work as the clinical research systems and process improvement specialist at VCHRI. In my role, I identify, implement and maintain systems that can help minimize and automate repetitive tasks within research. One great example would be the Clinical Trials Management Systems: a cloud-based platform that greatly simplifies tracking patients and finances.
Q: What is the best part about your research job?
A: Working alongside the top medical professionals and contributing to the well-being of our community is both humbling and motivating. Additionally, I have had the pleasure of befriending many amazing individuals that I have met through my work.
Q: What do you do for fun in your spare time?
A: I do not typically consider myself an outdoorsy person, but living in one of the most beautiful places in the world has sparked a new interest in hiking for me. I have recently tried the Grouse Grind, St. Mark’s Summit, Tunnel Bluffs and Joffre Lakes and am planning a trip to Garibaldi Lakes soon.
Q: What was your first job?
A: My first full-time job was as a diver in the marines. South Korea conscripts all men of age, so I enlisted after my first year of college. Though it was a grueling experience, it helped foster the mentality that I live by today. It also allowed me to enjoy a multitude of thrilling experiences, such as scuba diving and parachuting, for free.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would you go?
A: I would love to travel to Korea. I have not seen my friends and family there for a long time due to the pandemic and I wish to spend some quality time catching up with each one of them.
Q: What is one thing we might be surprised to learn about you?
A: I am able to speak three languages: English, Korean and (limited) Japanese. Growing up, I was exposed to numerous cultures as our family moved from Korea to Singapore and ultimately Canada. I also spent some time in Japan for language exchange.
Q: What is your favourite TV show?
A: I loved watching all nine seasons of the American version of The Office. It was a great way for me to learn colloquial English and has been a great conversation starter with many people.
