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.
“I like the fact that you can go out to the Arboretum and walk during lunch. The flowers and the trees provide such a beautiful and serene outlook to the campus. I like how the buildings are not congested into one area but are separated by trees and pathways.”
Explore as many different topics and opportunities as you can, talk to lots of different people (who are interested in the same things, and different things!), and don't be afraid to ask for help to find the resources and supports that will help you succeed in what you want to do. When you're choosing an advisor, make sure that they will be able to provide you with the support and mentorship that you want and need, and that you are on the same page about academic and work expectations.
I chose to study at the University of Guelph because I liked the friendly, community-based attitude here. After completing my undergraduate degree at Guelph I knew this is where I wanted to complete my master's.
Get involved in the community. Grad school is more than your research project; expand your contributions beyond your field of research and into the community where you are working.
Words of advice for someone considering graduate school.
Do not hesitate to ask questions in all aspects of overseas study. Your peers, professors, graduate coordinators, and everyone you meet here would love to help.
Advice for a prospective grad student or someone who would like to follow in your footsteps...
My biggest advice is to follow what truly excites you. My passion for equine reproduction started as a vet student, and every challenge and success since then has only made me more certain of my path. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, make mistakes, and learn from them — that’s where the growth happens. Surround yourself with people who support and inspire you, and remember why you started. There will be tough days, but if you love what you’re doing, it will all be worth it.