Biochemistry

From a young age, I have been fascinated by the intricate ways chemistry and biology work together. Upon receiving an offer from the University of Guelph to pursue my dream of studying Biochemistry, I immediately realized how fulfilling this experience would be. The way courses are structured, and professors go above and beyond at U of G mesmerizes me. The most important experience that U of G has provided me is the co-op experience. I gained firsthand practical exposure to how different each industry is and how biochemistry is the binding element that ties them all together. With immersive lectures, interactive laboratory sessions and hands-on experience, a biochemistry degree from U of G opens many doors for my future.

As an international student from Qatar, I chose the University of Guelph for its highly ranked biological science programs, the good professor ratings, and the co-op option to gain experience in my field. At my last co-op placement with Sanofi Pasteur, I worked on a project in collaboration with NASA. The project had a tight deadline and a few months into my co-op, we began to see some problems due to some problems with a genetically modified virus we were working with. I took the initiative to look into all the reagents we were using and discovered a mistake in the dilution calculations. My work was able to get the project back on track! The hands-on experience in my program helped me find a job immediately after graduation. I now work as a research associate at STEMCELL Technologies, where I continue to pursue my passion for science.

As the bridge between biology and chemistry, the Biochemistry program here at the U of G really sets itself apart from others in terms of its holistic approach towards education. The opportunities to shine in this program are numerous and include both traditional learning in the classroom setting and labs but also experiential learning, such as co-op and various internship opportunities. I decided to pursue Biochemistry as both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees because of its unique position to provide insight on biological problems at the molecular level.

I chose biochemistry because my main goal is to be a medical doctor and I wanted to have a broader view than just studying biology. Biochemistry gives you many options. Biochemistry has offered me opportunities to gain lab skills, research skills and writing also.