Ali Ashrafi (he/him)

About me

I was born/grew up in: Iran

I now live in: Sudbury, Ontario

I completed my training/education at:  I have a Bachelor Degree in English Interpretation fromo the University of Applied Science and Technology, and a Master of Translational Studies, from Islamic Azad University. I am enrolled in a PhD program in Human Studies and Interdisciplinary at Laurentian University. 

What I do at work

I’m currently studying and doing research to complete a PhD degree. I attend classes about 5 hours a week. These classes will help me identify a topic to do my research on. They will also help me decide the type of research I need to collect. Doing coursework at university is much the same as in high school. There are things you need to read before class. Sometimes there is work you must do after class. Sometimes there are tests to see what you have learned. I also write papers and reports. To do this I have to do a lot of library research. I have an Open Work Permit and I am currently looking for work.

My career path is

I am an international PhD student at Laurentian University. I have over 6 years of experience working with students as an educational agent in my home country. I Counsel students on how to choose their field of study, where they can study, how they can study how to apply for other universities, and how to apply for a Visa. I have worked with some Canadian Universities when I was in my home country as an agent.  I have also worked as a translator and have taught as the post-secondary level when I lived in Iran. I have also written articles for publication in magazines and online publications.

I’m not sure where my career path will take me when I complete my PhD. I may continue working in an academic setting such as a university. There I would do research and teach courses. I might get a job working in either the private or public sector.

I am motivated by

I have always been passionate about doing research. I have published several papers and books. I am interested to continue learning about the things we face as humans (e.g., gender issues, death and dying, etc.).

How I affect peoples’ lives

My research will increase our understanding of who humans are and how we function. It is difficult to say if my work will affect individuals. My work could help us better understand and face the social and physical challenges we have as a species.

Outside of work I

Listening to music, exercising, and reading books are my favourite hobbies.

My advice to others

Doing a Phd is hard work and I always advise students to join if they are passionate about doing research and find new information.