Sarah Ranby

Program

2019 Graduate – Family Relations & Applied Nutrition, MSc

Why I Chose Guelph… 

I completed my BAH Psychology at the University of Guelph. After taking a couple years off, I decided to apply to my Masters here. I was really drawn to do my graduate studies here, largely due to the faculty in the FRAN department, all of the staff are truly so supportive of your learning. I also loved that I was in an interdisciplinary program, which is what I think makes the MSc Family Relations and Human Development program so unique.

About My Advisor… 

My advisor was tremendous in supporting my academic endeavors. Their flexibility in allowing me to explore projects that best suited my research interests really demonstrated to me that they were there to best support me in any way they could. Their continuous support throughout the entire research process, really made me feel comfortable in navigating my thesis. I am so appreciative that we were able to collaboratively engage in research together with having the opportunity to share our insights and experiences with recognition that we each contributed in different ways to the research that was being done. This aspect of our academic relationship really made me enjoy the whole process.

About Being a Grad Student at U of G… 

Being a Graduate student at UofG challenges you, but in the best way possible. You are not only juggling your thesis, but typically you TA, both of which are new experiences and roles. Although it can all seem overwhelming at times, the supports you have on campus, and even the support from your peers and faculty really make all the difference. It was challenging, but I loved every aspect of it because I was here to be challenged, step out of my comfort zone and learn.

About Future Goals

I intend to get a job potentially in the field of program evaluation, looking at mental health promotion programs and services that directly serve youth. The courses, research opportunities and practicum I have been able to have here at the university have allowed for me to start developing the necessary skill set that will hopefully extend beyond the academic context to be used in a more applied context.

How Will Your Research Improve Life?

I had the opportunity to share my research results with the Wellington Catholic District School Board (WCDSB), and provided information regarding the implementation of a Social Emotional Learning program that aims to promote positive mental health and foster resiliency in children. Providing feedback on how the program is being implemented gives the WCDSB an idea of whether or not there are any additional resources that are required,and if anything needs to be done further to enhance the delivery of the program, which ultimately serves the larger goal of being able to best support children in their Social-Emotional development and overall well-being.