Program: Biomedical Sciences, Medical Physiology Minor
Year: 5
Stream of study: Regular
Pronouns: She/Her
Career goal: Optometry
How I get involved: In the past, I’ve been a BIOL 130L (Cell Biology Laboratory) Teaching Assistant, BIOL 373L (Human Physiology Laboratory) Teaching Assistant, Science Society Peer Mentor, and Science Society Survey Coordinator. Currently, I’m working under Campus Housing as a Front Desk Trainer at our UW residences, volunteering with the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) Foundation as a Vision Mate, and working as a BIOL 240L (Microbiology Laboratory) Teaching Assistant. I am also currently completing my undergraduate thesis, BIOL 499 Senior Honours Project, at the UW School of Optometry and Vision Science, researching inflammation in the eye using human corneal epithelial cells :)
Why I love my program
I love how the structure of the Biomedical Sciences program allows me to fulfill the requirements of many health-oriented professional schools (such as optometry, dentistry, medicine, and pharmacy) while also being flexible. The program has many electives which allow me to customize my degree to suit my career interest in optometry and dabble into other non-science subject areas that spark my curiosity. It’s also a great program to meet other like-minded students who are also interested in a career in healthcare!
Why University of Waterloo?
The University of Waterloo’s diverse student population and academic reputation are some of the factors that stand out to me. When I visited campus for the first time during Fall Open House, I loved the beautiful buildings and the overall inviting atmosphere. I also like how the university is situated in a largely student-based city, making for a great social environment. Having been here for the past four years, I can vouch that everyone here— from the students to the professors to the teaching assistants— all truly care about your wellbeing and success which helps build a sense of community. Additionally, the University of Waterloo is home to the only English-speaking optometry school in Canada which also influenced my decision in attending here!