Life as a graduate student at UofG is always exciting! Every day brings new experiences, learning opportunities, and challenges. One day, I could be conducting lab work, another day I could be attending classes and finishing assignments, while the next day I could be running sensory tests. At the same time, I am surrounded by smart, curious, and enthusiastic students who are all actively looking for ways to improve life.
The department! I knew I wanted to complete my graduate studies in nutrition, which is what drew me to Guelph. Then finding out what type of research my advisor did, and the people I met before I was even a part of the department, is what closed the deal!
I would advise prospective graduate students to read ahead. There are a lot of materials to cover in each reading, and each person depending on where you are from, will understand the material from a different perspective. That being said, respect each other's opinion because though it might be different from yours, it is every bit as valuable. People come from areas with different customs and traditions that are unique. Students from the Caribbean will react to material differently than those in Latin America, and sometimes people in the same countries exhibit different outlooks; it is a uniquely diverse program. Additionally, it is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself outside cultures of your own.
Allow yourself time to understand your work ethics in this new environment, especially if this is your first graduate program. Pace yourself, it is not a race; do not be afraid to ask questions because we are not experts yet. Do not feel that if you do not know something, it puts you at a disadvantage – you will learn. Your peers are all of the different backgrounds, do not measure your intelligence against theirs /others – you were chosen for this program based on your hard work. Feel confident, write confidently and pay attention to every point no matter how minor, and you will do fine.
Also, start thinking about your research/thesis idea early, it is a long process, and the earlier you know what you are doing, the easier it will be to write.
“Since I immigrated to Canada from Bangladesh in 2001 I have been living in Guelph. I cannot think of a city better than Guelph. People here are very friendly and dedicated to making their city a better place Guelph has a nice blend of rural and urban atmosphere; it's not too big or too small.”
The relationships that I have made with the other graduate students has proved invaluable. You receive so much support and guidance from them, and the program allows for a wide range of research interests.
Finding your passion will take you to the right place at the end of the road. Just keep doing your best and appreciate all the opportunities provided along the way.
Guelph is an amazing school academically and socially. You will be able to conduct cutting-edge research, surrounded by people who passionate, intelligent and supportive. There are so many social events and opportunities so don't be nervous to join clubs, teams or come out to social events!
If you come to Guelph, your program will be full of like-minded students who have the same passion that you do for your research. The environment you will be in is the most supportive environment you can have for when you are pursuing something that you love.
