People are very friendly and kind, and respect each other's culture. I feel like I am at a home away from home. There is not the rush and noise that you find in most cities. Life is…perfect here.
Volunteering and trying out different career experiences is essential to knowing what you like/what you are good at. I often volunteer my time to entomological societies or writing blog posts for the public so I can gain more skills in scientific communication. Practicing your skills is what helps build them up.
I decided to complete my graduate studies at the University of Guelph for a multitude of reasons - the amazing faculty being a significant one. Not only do I feel supported by my professors, but they motivate me to be a better researcher. The skills I've received from the Guelph faculty are invaluable, and I know that they have prepared me for whatever opportunities follow my degree.
Make your research project/thesis something you're passionate about. If you have a great idea, take it to a professor and see if you can make it into a project.
My first piece advice to prospective grad students would be to find a lab or an advisor that you mesh well with and are excited about working with. If you are on the same page and feel comfortable from the start, it makes all the difference. After that, trust yourself and your abilities! You are capable of more than you think.
We have AMAZING faculty for cardiovascular research, as well as nutrition, exercise and food science. If you're trying to choose universities and advisors, come drop by Guelph- chat to the professors, other lab members, our support staff. You'll see the difference yourself and be able to make an informed decision!
Graduate studies are not to be taken lightly, and choosing the lab, department, and institution are just as important as the research itself. The U of G supports their graduate students in a way that some larger universities don't, and an emphasis is placed on graduating well-rounded, critically-thinking students that will be able to succeed in whatever profession they choose.
The faculty profiles page, on the Food Science Department website, is very useful to help find research projects that you may be interested in. Do not hesitate to email or talk directly to the faculty members. They are always welcoming, and can even help you apply for scholarship funding!
If you are considering graduate studies, I suggest that you take your research interests and see who on campus is pursuing something that aligns with them. Given the wide range of topics and fields of study here, I would not be surprised to see at least one other individual or faculty member engaged in some research that closely mirrors the interests of the student.
