Melanie McCaig

Programs

MA Management, PhD Computational Sciences

Why I chose Guelph

I choose graduate studies at the University of Guelph because it felt like home. Graduate studies cause you to think differently. The University of Guelph's initiative of innovation to improve life is present in each lecture hall, lab, and library cubicle. Every graduate student is working to discover knowledge for a better world.

What's it like to be a grad student at Guelph?

The University of Guelph expects a lot of their students, which works with students intrinsic motivation to strive for excellence. The community of graduate students is like a group of people kayaking. Everyone is in their own boat, together experiencing a similar current. But people further ahead will always be there to guide you.

Favorite thing about the campus

Creelman Hall food! But also the atmosphere of positivity and work ethic.

About the city of Guelph

The city of Guelph has so many trails! It is always nice to take a break and walk through the arboretum or one of the many other parks throughout the city. I also love the number of coffee shops and restaurants.

About my advisor

My advisor has been the biggest supporter of my academic career. He directs me to opportunities that constantly advance my growth and challenge my way of thinking.

What excites you about the work you are doing here?

Whenever you are doing research you are trying to create knowledge. As Stephen Hawking said, "It is the joy of discovering something no one knew before". It is looking at your data and surprising yourself!

How will my work Improve Life?

My research on talent management practices in Canada will allow Canadian managers to more effectively guide their employees. It will show how Canadian organizations compete for talent. The interest in TM is amplified recently due to the shifting nature of demographics, which comprises of an ageing labour force and declining birth rates in numerous developed economies, combined with the arrival of globalization and the emergence of the ‘knowledge worker’.

My future plans

I have accepted a PhD program in Computational Sciences at the University of Guelph. UofG has given me the educational background to achieve my dream of being a professor and learning for life!