What are you studying at LMP and why are you interested in studying it?
The primary thing that initially drew me to LMP was the breadth and diversity in areas of study offered by the program. Whether you're interested in the biology behind infectious disease, neurodegeneration, or any other field of disease, LMP has something for everyone.
When I was finishing my first year and exploring different program options, I was still somewhat undecided about which area to focus on, but LMP stood out to me as a program that would really allow me to explore a range of academic interests.
While taking my second-year courses, I became especially interested in cancer – not only because of its significant global burden but also because I found the underlying signaling mechanisms and therapeutic strategies particularly fascinating and enjoyable to study. Since then, I’ve had the chance to continue to learn more about the field of cancer biology, both through courses such as the 300-level LMP courses and PCL386 (a third-year option course on cancer signaling pharmacology) for example, as well as research in the labs of LMP faculty. I look forward to learning more next year in my upcoming fourth-year courses!
Tell us about any research you're currently working on
Over the last year, I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to study proteins involved with chemotherapeutic resistance in non-small cell lung cancer in the lab of Dr. Kelsie Thu. This summer, I will also be studying the therapeutic targeting of resistant acute myeloid leukemia in the lab of Dr. Hong Chang.
What is the most interesting thing you’ve done, seen or got involved with while at LMP?
The most interesting things I’ve gotten involved with in LMP has definitely been the research programs, such as LMP SURE (The LMP Summer Undergraduate Research Program) and the LMP305 research course. Of the two, I’m especially fond of LMP305; it was awesome to see friends and peers, many of whom were from my 3rd-year cohort, present the work they’d been working on through the fall/winter terms or even earlier.
What was the best career advice you ever received?
I can’t remember when exactly I heard this, but the best advice I’ve received has been along the lines of, “Follow your passion and success will come naturally.” I truly believe in this mindset, that genuine interest in your work or studies produces the motivation to persist through challenges, helps prevent burnout, and encourages us to strive for mastery. With all these ingredients together, success is likely to follow.
What has been an important learning experience in your life?
Transitioning from staying with my family in Edmonton to independent living in Toronto for university has been one of the formative experiences of my life. This experience has provided me with a lot of freedom as well as taught me to be proactive in seeking out opportunities and pursuing my own direction in life. At the same time, it came with important lessons in accountability and responsibility, particularly in the cases of managing my time, making decisions, and taking care of my health and well-being.
Who is an influential person in your life and why?
I would say my parents, as they have always encouraged me to pursue what I love and to continually push my own limits. I think internalizing these values has led me to where I am now and has been a key factor in shaping both my personal growth and academic/professional development.
What would it surprise people to know about you?
I’m a bit of a coffee nerd and enjoy trying different specialty beans for my pour-overs at home.
What activities do you enjoy doing outside of work and studies?
When I’m done with my work for the day, I can often be found climbing at Basecamp, the gym near campus. Additionally, I enjoy cooking, spending time with my girlfriend and friends, and trying out restaurants or cafes. This summer, I’ve also been dabbling in a few new activities, like drawing and crochet.
What is your favourite album, film and novel?
Album: Being So Normal by Peach Pit.
Film: I can’t really think of a definitive favorite film off the top of my head, but some of my favorites from the past year or two include The Devil All the Time as well as I’m Thinking of Ending Things.
Book: Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami.
Who would be your dream dinner guests?
My dream dinner guests would probably be with my grandfathers alongside the rest of my family.
Where or what is your favourite place?
It’s been several years since I’ve been to Shanghai, but I have a lot of nostalgia from visiting my grandparents there throughout my childhood. While I’m not great with traveling (I get incredibly sick on planes), I look back at all my memories and experiences from those trips very affectionately. Plus, the food is amazing and super affordable!
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?
The first item would be an upright piano with all of my sheet music stuffed inside – I used to play a lot, but as my workload has increased and access to pianos declined, I’ve found myself playing less and less. Second, I would probably bring a pull-up bar so that I can stay in shape for when I get back and train calisthenics exercises like the front lever or one-arm pull-up.
