Each convocation, the University of Waterloo recognizes and profiles an outstanding PhD student from each Faculty across campus to showcase a glimpse into the hard work, dedication and success of every graduate. This convocation, the Faculty of Science will welcome 31 new graduates from Science PhD programs, including Cheryl Sturm from the Department of Chemistry.
As a PhD student, Sturm had her share of challenges and sure knows what it’s like to fail — but also what it’s like to succeed with flying colours. Sturm had a sticky note on her desk saying, “every blind squirrel finds an acorn sometimes,” to encourage her on days where nothing seemed to go right.
Professor Holger Kleinke and his wonderful “‘can-do”’ attitude left an impression on Sturm when she heard him speak at California State University, Long Beach. When she found out he had space for another PhD student at Waterloo, she was elated.
“After researching and learning about all the facilities and the reputation the university had, it was pretty clear… Waterloo or Bust!”
Sturm’s dissertation involved studying thermoelectric materials, specifically those which are composed of cheap and non-toxic elements. These materials can convert heat into electricity, which is useful in creating sensors for the Internet of Things (IoT): the network of physical devices connected to the internet, collecting and sharing data.
“Current high performance thermoelectric materials are composed of toxic elements, but we don’t think too much of it because they are mostly being used to power the Mars rovers and deep space satellites. But, for example, there are patches used to test your blood sugar that need to be recharged every so often, but if you implement a thermoelectric device, it would take away the need for a battery since it would be powered by your body heat!”
The chemistry graduate student intramural softball team, “Acids and Bases,” gave Sturm a lot of fond memories. The team was a nice reminder to Sturm that she wasn’t alone, and that other students were experiencing the same issues and feelings as she was. No matter how the game was going, the team would always be sure to have “Flourine Uranium Nitrogen!”
“I’ve met so many wonderful people, formed strong friendships, and even participated in activities I would have never even thought of doing!”
What’s next for Sturm? After not seeing family for a while due to the COVID-19 pandemic, she’ll be spending time with loved ones and taking a mental health break before making the leap into the industry.