Graduated From The Honours Life Sciences (B.Sc. Hon) Program (2025)

Current Position:

Currently a student in the eHealth Masters Program at McMaster!

What was the most impactful experience during your program?

My most impactful experiences during the program were definitely during my seminar courses. Learning in these small group settings pushed me beyond my comfort zone. But, it really encouraged me to engage more actively in classroom discussions, ask questions, and share my ideas. This ultimately motivated me to take a more active role in my own learning. The seminars not only helped me build confidence, but also strengthened my critical thinking skills and appreciation for engaging with academic literature, skills that continue to shape how I learn today.

Why did you choose the Honours Life Sciences Program (or co-op or specialization, etc.)?

I chose the Honours Life Sciences Program at McMaster because it gave me the freedom to explore many different areas of science, helping me find my passion. I had the chance to take a wide variety of courses from environmental science to chemistry, biology, and psychology, which helped me develop a broader understanding of science and research as a whole. Being able to explore these different disciples allowed me to discover what truly interested me and ultimately helped shape the direction I want to pursue in my future career. Which, funnily enough, continues this interdisciplinary path.

Graduated From The Honours Life Sciences (B.Sc. Hon) Program (2025)

Current Position:

I am currently at Humber college for a post-graduate certificate in clinical research, while volunteering and working as an aquatic supervisor!

How did you utilize the flexibility available in the Honours Life Sciences Program?

I utilized the flexibility in the Honours Life Sciences program by taking electives that allowed me to explore interests beyond the core life sciences curriculum. I was able to take courses in bioethics, American Sign Language, and other interdisciplinary subjects that helped me broaden my perspective and build a more diverse skill set. This flexibility also made it possible for me to go on exchange, which became one of the most memorable parts of my degree. Being able to study in a different environment, experience new teaching styles, and immerse myself in another culture added a whole new layer to my academic and personal growth. Overall, the program’s flexibility allowed me to shape a more personalized and meaningful undergraduate experience that aligned with both my interests and long-term goals.

Why did you choose the Honours Life Sciences Program (or co-op or specialization, etc.)?

I chose to specialize in the general branch of Honours Life Sciences because I liked the freedom it gave me when it came to elective courses. Going into university, I knew I had an interest in healthcare, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to go the research route or if I wanted a more hands on role through medicine or physiotherapy for example. In the Honours Life Sciences, I was able to explore different health-related pathways through my coursework which supported my interests in clinical work, research, and even topics of science communication. I wasn’t confined to taking a certain set of courses and was allowed to branch out and try courses that were of interest to me such as ASL. These courses not only helped me maintain a balanced week in school but they also allowed me to try something new, something of interest. The elective courses I chose to take also helped me build a multidisciplinary skill set that I still use to this day, whether it be at my job, in my post-cert program or in the future.

Graduated From The Honours Life Sciences (B.Sc. Hon) Program (2019)

Current Position:

MD Candidate at McMaster University

Why Did You Choose The Honours Life Sciences Program (Or Co-Op Or Specialization, Etc.)?

I chose the Honours Life Sciences Program because it allowed me to learn without imposing restrictions. My academic interests were not specific to one topic, but rather I was interested in a diversity of topics (i.e. epidemiology, biopsychology, pathophysiology, etc.). The Honours Life Sciences Program allowed me to explore these diverse interests without making me feel pigeonholed. I also really appreciated the amazing faculty in the program – being able to learn from them was an incredible opportunity, and the program also allowed me to collaborate with them on numerous projects, which really enriched my undergraduate experience.

Graduated From The Honours Life Sciences (B.Sc. Hon) Program (2018)

Current Position:

I am now starting my Masters of Anatomical Sciences in the Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences at Queen’s University.

What Was The Most Impactful Experience During Your Program?

The most impactful experience in my program was definitely my undergraduate thesis project. My supervisor was an excellent mentor who guided me through my very own research project from start to finish, and remains a valued mentor who I continue to collaborate with in additional projects as a post-graduate. The life sciences research course also provided me with valuable skills in research presentation and knowledge translation.

Graduated From The Honours Life Sciences (B.Sc. Hon) Program (2018)

Current Position:

Master’s Candidate in the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Program at Western University.

How Did The Life Sciences Program Help To Prepare You For Your Post-Graduate Endeavours?

The Life Science program helped me to develop a more holistic view of science and research. From being able to perform technical laboratory techniques, to effectively communicating scientific findings, I feel that I have refined many of the foundational research skills I need to do well in a Masters program. Also, I learned the importance of “soft skills” and gained strong interpersonal skills such as verbal and written communication, presentation, teamwork etc. Whether I decide to pursue more education, find a job in the workplace or travel the world, these skills will help me thrive in any position.

Graduated From The Life Sciences Program (2018)

Current Position:

I have graduated from the Life Sciences program in 2018, and I am going to be attending The University of Toronto under OISE for Developmental psychology and Education.

How Did The Life Sciences Program Help To Prepare You For Your Post-Graduate Endeavours?

It seems to be a reoccurring theme for me, but research! Acceptance into a post graduate master’s program is tough no matter what you apply for, but I truly believe the work I did outside of the classroom is what helped make me stand out. Further, it gave me the confidence to speak to professors and relevant experience to bring my education to the next level through real-life critical thinking skills.