Each month we speak to a member of the Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology community and find out more about them as part of an initiative from our Wellness, Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Committee (WIDE).
This month, we feature undergraduate student, Olivia Ruffolo who is the new President of LMPSU, the undergraduate student union in LMP.
What are you studying at LMP and why are you interested in studying it?
I was drawn to LMP due to the breadth of courses the program offers and how it encourages students to deepen their understanding of the scientific process and human disease through the countless research opportunities offered. With courses exploring every aspect of pathobiology and 350+ faculty members studying a broad range of niches within the subject, everyone can find something that sparks their passion.
On top of the academic opportunity, I love LMP’s small program size. I am surrounded by some of the most talented individuals who inspire me every day, and amazing professors and staff who provide constant support. LMP feels like more than just a program, but a community, and I couldn’t imagine my undergraduate career without it.
Tell us about your research
I am currently conducting research under the supervision of Dr. Denise Belsham (Department of Physiology). We are exploring the role of kisspeptin in hypothalamic neurons and the mechanisms behind its regulation. Our research aims to contribute advancements in the field of reproductive physiology and influence future therapeutic interventions for reproductive diseases, such as infertility.
What is the most interesting thing you’ve done, seen or got involved with while at LMP?
There are so many opportunities to get involved in the LMP community beyond classes. One that I have cherished for three consecutive years is being a part of the LMP Student Union, and more specifically, our annual conference.
The conference creates an atmosphere like no other, connecting a multitude of different learners across high school, undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, as well as those outside of academia, who share the same passion to learn. We promote this curiosity by ensuring the conference is accessible to all, beginning with making it entirely free. Therefore, everyone can hear our group of leading experts share some of the most incredible and important research going on in the field.
This year is different for me than the past two as I am now spearheading the conference planning. I am thrilled to be building on the success of previous years with my amazing team, who I need to thank as they have gone above and beyond to make this conference the best yet.
What was the best career advice you ever received?
The best thing you can do for yourself is to give it your all and not fear the mistakes you may make along the way. Sometimes external outcomes are out of your control, but what you can control is your effort and attitude towards the situation.
What has been an important learning experience in your life?
Playing competitive sports has shaped how I live as it has taught me what it truly means to be a part of a team. I learned how to really be there for people through highs and lows and trust that other people are there to support me too. It has allowed me to form connections with people that I know will last a lifetime and will carry into creating great environments wherever life takes me.
Who is an influential person in your life and why?
Easily my parents. They not only inspire me every day but support me with their whole hearts in anything I aspire to do. This pushes me to continue being ambitious and, more importantly, to show up for the people in my life the same way they do for me.
What would it surprise people to know about you?
My definition of what walking distance is. I’m not sure why this is so shocking, but I think an hour walk each way (maybe 1.5) is walking distance. You get to experience so much of the place you are in by walking, and it is nice to slow down and take your time getting to your destination.
What activities do you enjoy doing outside of work and studies?
Anything that gets me moving and/or outside. I love playing a good game of any sport (soccer, tennis, volleyball, the list goes on…), going for a run or row, or tearing up a dance floor. For those days where I want something a little more relaxing, I will find a park to sit in and either read or have a good conversation with friends.
What is your favourite album, film and novel?
Favourite Album: Parachutes by Coldplay. I grew up listening to this with my dad and heard songs from it with him at my first concert, so it holds a special place in my heart.
Favourite Film: Good Will Hunting
Novel: There are way too many to choose from so I will give you my favourite read of this year, which was Cat’s Eye by Margaret Atwood.
Who would be your dream dinner guests?
I would want to recreate a dinner memory I cherish deeply. It is of both sides of my family gathered around the dinner table, chatting away. The only people missing were two cousins and my avô, my grandfather, who had passed away prior. I would give anything to share a meal with my entire family again.
Where/what is your favourite place?
My favourite place is right here in the city. I live in an apartment with one of my favourite people and all my closest friends and family are either a couple hours away or visit the city at least once a year, so I never have to miss them for that long. Also, there is always something new to do or new people to meet being in the heart of Toronto, so I can never get bored.
If you were stuck on a deserted island but had all your basic needs taken care of (i.e. food and water), what two items would you bring with you and why?
I would only want one item: a boat. After a couple hours, my mind would begin to think about all the people that would make this island so much more fun. I would then take the boat to pick them up, along with a Bluetooth speaker, a soccer ball, and anything else our hearts desire before heading back to the island to spend some quality time together.
