Be prepared. Look around first and then come here. Do your homework when you're looking at programs and remember that you stand a real chance of working with OMAFRA and OMAFRA connected researchers here. They really are the best.
I am a proud second-generation Gryphon and University of Guelph alumna, having received an Honours Bachelor of Arts in International Development from the U of G in 2008, following in my father's footsteps (Agricultural Engineering '71 and MSc '86). Coming back to Guelph to pursue a doctorate has felt like coming home in all the best ways.
My biggest piece of advice is to say yes to new opportunities because you never know where they may lead. I did not always envision myself completing a master’s degree, especially as a first-generation post-secondary and graduate student whose parents did not have the opportunity to attend high school. However, by remaining open to possibilities and believing that no dream is too big, I found myself pursuing opportunities I once thought were out of reach. I would also encourage students to get involved on campus, whether through clubs, societies, sports teams, or campus jobs. There truly is something for everyone, and getting involved can help students find community. I would encourage students to take the time to research options and choose the pathway that aligns with their goals and learning style. Finally, build and lean on a strong support network, and continue networking. The relationships cultivated along the way can make all the difference!
“I love Guelph for the downtown area especially the farmer’s market, the pubs, and all of the great outlets for outdoor activities. There’s a strong culture in Guelph that creates a strong community feel to the city.”
To future graduate students, it is important to keep a clean, legible, and logical lab notebook! Also remember that your brain is your best weapon to succeed in graduate school and it functions best when it is well-rested; only pull all-nighters if necessary. Learn to manage your time and try not to do multiple things at once; multi-tasking in the lab can lead to errors in experiments. Finally, enjoy your time and get all the food and freebies from conferences and other events!
I would tell any prospective grad students to visit the campuses they are applying to, and talk to students in their program(s) of interest! A major factor in my staying at Guelph was the campus community, and knowing that I would be supported throughout my studies in not only my academics, but also through the social atmosphere on campus.
My advice to any prospective grad student is to not rush into graduate school without some self-reflection about your passions, what you love doing and what you would like to study. This is because grad school can be a challenging place but also incredibly rewarding as it teaches you how to read critically, learn systemically, and think deeply. As such, I invite potential students to engage in some introspection and self-reflection about your motivations, desires, and commitments as this is a weird (but wonderful) experience distinctive from both undergrad and from other jobs so its important to not rush into anything without thinking.
The advice or words of wisdom is simple, do whatever you think you want to do. I mean I had to really figure out if this is what I wanted to do and why. When that was settled, I did my research on programs and such but for me I talked with other academics from different disciplines. I needed to hear what it would be like emotionally and mentally and then think about how I would handle those ups and downs. Once, I had the basics of what I needed, and I knew what I could control, I put my best effort forth and then I felt content with results. This has been my mindset, to understand the coursework, to learn and adapt, and do my best. And once you’re in a program, they want you there, otherwise they wouldn’t have accepted you.
