"Don’t spend your life trying to find yourself. Focus on creating the person you want to be."
Oded Aminov
- Degree:
- Master of Applied Science
- Grad year: 2021
- Program:
- Campus: Vancouver
During my undergrad, I competed as a varsity Track & Field athlete while completing my science degree. In tandem, I leveraged my strong understanding of physics and mechanical engineering to design, build, and operate my own CNC and plastic injection machines. These innovations enabled my entrepreneurial passion and aided me in launching a company specializing in drone GPS tracking devices, which have been sold worldwide across five continents.
I later pursued my Master’s in Biomedical Engineering, where I developed an unobtrusive surgical navigation system for shoulder replacement surgery. In the midst of my research, I also co-founded FLOWO2, which developed emergency ventilators for use during the COVID-19 pandemic. This system gained international recognition and has been featured in Forbes, CBC, Global News, CTV, and many more. When not at work, I play chess competitively and love solving complex puzzles. I also never refuse a game of volleyball.
What has made your time at UBC memorable?
I will never forget the day I made the national championships qualifying standard as a varsity Track & Field athlete while competing on home turf. The outpouring of support I received from my fellow students gave me the encouragement I needed, which enabled me to achieve this great athletic accomplishment. This was truly a standout moment for me made possible through the UBC community, creating a memory that I will cherish forever from my time at this university.
What advice would you give a student entering your degree program?
As a high jumper, I would continue to leap over the rising bar until ending the competition on a failure.
I like to make the analogy that you only know your true limits when you have reached the failure point. I recommend for new students to take on projects outside the classroom and push themselves to new heights. Work hard, never stop questioning, and never turn down an opportunity. As they say, there are no shortcuts to any place worth going.
