Humans of LMP, Programs: Graduate, Research: Infectious diseases & immunopathology
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 MSc student, Shmily Lin who, alongside Anca Maglaviceanu, is one of the new Co-Presidents of CLAMPS, the graduate student union in LMP.
What are you studying at LMP and why are you interested in studying it?
I’m studying SARS-CoV-2 vaccines under the supervision of Dr. Victor Ferreira. I’ve been fascinated by the immune system since I was a child, and that interest deepened during my undergraduate studies in immunology. One of my favourite courses (MIJ485) focused on vaccinology, which inspired me to pursue graduate school to explore this area further.
Tell us about your research
I’m researching the metabolic correlates of immunity following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in transplant recipients. It’s well established that transplant patients, who are typically on multiple immunosuppressive medications, have weaker responses to vaccines compared to the general population. However, even among patients on similar levels of immunosuppression, vaccine-induced immune responses can vary dramatically.
Our lab is investigating how metabolic differences might help explain this variability. Ultimately, we hope to identify key metabolites that not only shape vaccine responses in immunocompromised individuals but could also be leveraged to improve vaccine efficacy in the broader population.
What is the most interesting thing you’ve done, seen or got involved with while at LMP?
Getting involved in CLAMPS has been one of the most rewarding and memorable parts of my time at LMP. I’ve met so many incredible people who’ve shared unique perspectives and experiences with me. I’ve always believed in reaching for opportunities, not just to achieve success, but also to connect with others, create meaningful memories, and challenge myself.
Through CLAMPS, I’ve had the chance to help plan and participate in events, but I’ve also been able to interact with the department in ways I never imagined when I first started my program. I’ve connected with students across all years and gained valuable insight into what works and what doesn’t, both academically and socially. I feel incredibly lucky and grateful for this experience, and I strongly encourage other students to get involved however they can. I have always believed that it is truly up to us to make the most of our degrees!
What was the best career advice you ever received?
The best advice I’ve received is that it’s important to fail. It’s something I’ve heard many times, but for a long time, I struggled to accept it. I’ve had a deep fear of failure for most of my life, and there are many things I never even attempted simply because I wasn’t sure I’d succeed. And there are things I did try, only to fall short. But over time, I’ve come to understand that failure is not just unavoidable, it’s essential. Growth doesn’t happen in a vacuum. The most fulfilling moments of my life wouldn’t have been possible without first going through disappointment, uncertainty, and discomfort. I’m proud of how I’ve learned to thrive because of those failures, as well as in spite of them. And I know that perspective will continue to shape how I approach every stage of my life and career.
What has been an important learning experience in your life?
Some of the most important learning experiences in my life have come through my interactions with other people. Over time, I’ve encountered people who are kind and generous, people who are difficult or unkind, people who assume they know everything, and people who quietly teach you something valuable without even trying.
What I’ve learned through all of this is that we can’t control how others act, and we can only control how we respond. That shift in perspective has pushed me to spend more time thinking about who I want to be rather than trying to change or predict what others will do. It’s a mindset that’s helped me stay clear on my own values, living by my own terms.
Who is an influential person in your life and why?
My best friend and partner who has taught me so much about who I am and who I can be - I love you.
What would it surprise people to know about you?
I was part of a K-pop dance team in high school and it’s now grown to over 20,000 subscribers on YouTube!
What activities do you enjoy doing outside of work and studies?
Music has always been a huge part of my life. I grew up playing piano and singing in choir, and I’ve carried that passion with me ever since. More recently, I’ve gotten involved with acappella and musical theatre, and I’ve also started learning the guitar.
Having a creative outlet has been very important to me since it gives me something to look forward to outside of academics and work, and it’s helped me stay grounded during some of the most intense periods of my life. Music has filled a unique space for joy and connection, and through music, I’ve met some of the most wonderful people and had experiences I wouldn’t trade for anything.
What is your favourite album, film and novel?
Album: Rumours by Fleetwood Mac
Film: Rush Hour
Novel: The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan
Who would be your dream dinner guests?
I would love to invite Taylor Swift over for dinner. As a lifelong swiftie, there are so many easter eggs that I’d love to get confirmation about.
Where/what is your favourite place?
Whenever I’m feeling like there’s too much going on, I mentally take myself back to the sunny fields of California where I grew up. I love that it feels like home, that I can brush my hand against the warmth of the sunlight as I roll down my windows on a mid-day drive. The air has just the right humidity. As far as I’ve come, my favourite place will always be home.
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’d bring my phone and my guitar so I could finally have the time to learn all the songs I’ve been saying I would!
