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.
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.
There are so many ways to pursue your passions and interests. I'd recommend that prospective grad students be certain that they are ready for the rigour and commitment required by graduate studies. Be open to new ideas, critiques, and other ways of seeing the world. Learn from your peers, students, university staff, and the wider community, in addition to your professors. Be generous with others and build community. Don't forget where you come from.
The graduate life experience is great! There are a ton of activities and ways to get involved on campus. The administration, faculty and fellow student truly provide a supportive environment to learn, grow and be challenged.
My advice for someone who would like to follow in my footsteps is that if you have a passion, have the science mould around your passion as opposed to moulding your passion around the science. For example, my main passion in science is aquatic Species at Risk conservation and ecology, while prior to my thesis I had no interest in molecular biology. It was only when my passion could only be obtained through the lens of molecular biology that DNA became exciting to me!
Also, I recommend one to take every opportunity as it presents itself and to continuously seek out new opportunities. Every relevant job, course, and volunteer work that I have had in my academic career has provided connections and experience for the next opportunity. If you work hard and are passionate about what you do, your day job feels a lot less like work ;)
Words of wisdom for someone considering grad school...
My advice would be to not be afraid to try anything. Take any opportunities you have for new experiences because you never know what you will end up liking! If I had not tried a wide variety of courses during my time at the University of Guelph, I would not have discovered my interest in reproductive biology. Also, take any opportunity you can to speak with other graduate students; everyone is extremely friendly and always willing to lend a hand if you need it. Your peers are a great resource and are always willing to offer some advice on school, research, or life.
