Conversation With...

This weekend I will...

Go for a long run outside. I’ve just recovered from a tendon issue that sidelined me for three months—so I’m thrilled to lace up my running shoes again! Let’s hope my legs remember what to do.

I'll never forget...

The sunsets in Brisbane, especially on those sunny winter days. I try to catch the sunset whenever I can, and it never gets old. There’s something magical about watching the day’s light fade into a canvas of orange, pink, and navy hues.

I'd originally planned to work...

I originally studied banking and finance and spent seven years as a banker, even though it feels like I didn’t really plan for that! Then, I switched to public health research and now I’m doing my PhD in youth substance use. My career seems follow whatever path calls to me at the moment!

I'm most scared of...

Making phone calls. I’d rather send 127 emails and 300 texts and hope for a reply. Seriously, who invented phone calls?

The qualities I most value in my colleagues are...

Kindness. Academia is mentally demanding, fiercely competitive, and can feel incredibly lonely at times. Any support is greatly appreciated, but the kindness of my colleagues truly touches my heart and brings a much-needed warmth.

I'm really terrible at...

Taking photos. I’m surrounded by so much beauty and so many precious moments that I want to share with my loved ones, but all I end up with are blurry shots that leave them giving me quizzical looks.

If I had more time, I'd...

Work on my procrastination problem. Maybe. Eventually.

For my next holiday...

I’d love to completely disconnect from work for a few days. I’ve developed a serious case of FOMO when I’m not checking emails or the work group chat.

My goal for 2024 is...

To get all my necessary studies done and papers submitted, so I can focus entirely on writing my thesis in the first half of 2025. Additionally, I plan to get more involved in research projects that I’ve had less exposure to, like qualitive interviews with young people. We’ll be getting their input through interviews and focus groups to design materials that raise awareness of vaping harm among youth and adolescents. As someone who’s mostly stuck to quantitative projects, I’m excited to venture into the world of qualitative research. It’s time to leave my comfort zone and engage more deeply with the people our research is helping the most.

Career wise, I’m most proud of...

Making it to today. Every day is a small step forward, and I’m proud of myself for continuing to take those steps.

The sector's biggest challenge going forward is...

Funding, as always. Plus, the divided views on vaping and emerging tobacco-related products are creating confusion and fragmenting our already limited resources. It’s especially tough for those who need clarity the most, like people who smoke and young people.

My big hope for the drug and alcohol sector is…

A more united approach to emerging tobacco-related products and how we handle them.

Find out more about Gigi’s research here, and watch her Keynote presentation “Vaping in the Australian and global setting” with Ms Tianze Sun at NCYSUR’s 2024 Research Symposium here.