Age: 20
Program: Medical Sciences with an Honours Specialization in Pathology
Hometown: Mississauga
Tell me about yourself and all the things you do at Western:
Throughout my time at Western, I have had the great pleasure of being involved with some very exciting and enriching opportunities, all of which have contributed immensely to my personal, social and academic development. Currently, I serve as the Online Editor-In-Chief for Scholars’ Publications and Purpology, VP External for Habitat for Humanity Western, a Western Serves Leader, a student leader for IESC’s Activity Coordinator team, and as an executive member of the Women’s Empowerment at Western team. I am also employed at the Movement Disorders Centre at University Hospital, where I work with some incredible scientists and engineers in improving clinical care, diagnosis and treatment of patients with Parkinson’s disease and related disorders.
What is the best/your favorite thing you have done at Western?
Professionally, one my favourite university experiences thus far has been working at the Owen Lab in the Brain and Mind Institute. I had the chance to participate directly in remarkably exciting and innovative neuroscience research taking place on campus, and partake in some unconventional but rewarding experiences along the way.
Recently, I took part in an Alternative Spring Break trip to New Orleans, which is another memorable opportunity that will forever remain as an integral part of my university career. It allowed me to have some important and inspiring conversations and experiences, and introduced me to some incredible people within the Western community.
What did you like most about your major?
That I can’t even count how long I have spent learning about the human body, yet every day I leave my classes in awe of all the intricacies and mysteries within it that remain unanswered.
Who is your role model?
My parents have been, are, and always will be my role models. They are incomparable. I would have none of the opportunities I am involved with today without them. The values, beliefs and ideals they have instilled within me greatly influence the decisions I make and the way I view the world around me. My parents have made astonishing personal and professional sacrifices to ensure the perpetual happiness and comfort of my siblings and I – no expression of gratitude can ever be enough.
What are your plans for the summer?
This summer, I will be working at the Bone and Joint Institute at Western, conducting research on intervertebral disc and spine pathologies, as well as volunteering with some non-for-profit organizations that support causes I am passionate about. I also hope to spend some time making a dent in my never-ending reading list and exploring London.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Fulfilled.
Have you had any classes/ professors at Western that made an impact on you?
First year biology with Professor Haffie has been one of the transformative and enlightening classes of my university career. It had tremendous impact in shaping the way I view science, learning and academia as a whole. Prof. Haffie continually challenges his students, forcing them to be critical and creative in their approach to scientific concepts – I have yet to meet a professor who can match his impeccable ability to change student thinking. First year biology gave me immense reassurance that the decision I made to pursue science at Western had been the right one. I have also quite enjoyed the courses in etymology, psychology and pathology I have taken at Western thus far.
Do have any guilty pleasures?
I’ve never entirely understood the term ‘guilty pleasure.’ I don’t think I believe in it. If something brings you happiness, pleasure and peace of mind, it should be celebrated, shared and enjoyed whole-heartedly, not hidden. Self-love is the best and most important kind of love.
What’s your favorite thing to do in your spare time?
I am an avid writer and reader, so those activities take up most of my limited spare time. Besides that, I enjoy playing badminton and cricket, travelling, and watching well-written comedy.