Humans of LMP, Programs: Undergraduate, Agile education, Impactful research, Inclusive community
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).
What are you studying at LMP and why are you interested in studying it?
I decided to join the Pathobiology Specialist program because I am deeply fascinated with how seemingly small changes on a biomolecular level can cause large, system-wide effects. I am motived to study in LMP because we learn about cellular dysregulation through landmark studies and current research advances. So far, my favorite class of my undergraduate degree has been LMP410 - Pathobiology of Neurodegenerative Disease. We have an expert guest lecturer every week, and they discuss the mechanisms of the disease, as well as current research towards advancing treatments or diagnoses. Very cool content and I recommend it highly!
Tell us about your research
Currently, I am undertaking an LMP405 thesis project at Dr. Warren Lee’s lab. We are studying endothelial biology: how and why molecules get through blood vessel cells. I am working closely with a graduate student in the lab to elucidate the mechanism of action of an atypical chemokine receptor on the surface of endothelial cells.
What is the most interesting thing you’ve done, seen or got involved with while at LMP?
There are so many opportunities in LMP to meet new people and expand your knowledge. One of my favorites has to be LMPSU’s annual research conference. This one-day event introduces attendees to current hot topics in the department, which are presented by leading researchers. These talks are incredibly engaging and understandable to a wide breadth of audiences.
I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of the organising team for the past three years. This year, I am playing a bigger role in conference planning alongside Olivia Ruffolo, LMPSU’s President. Join us on January 10th, as we will be Getting to the Heart of the Matter and exploring advances in cardiovascular disease research! I look forward to hearing passionate talks and participating in engaging discussions.
What was the best career advice you ever received?
Something along the lines of “You’ll never know if you never try.” I find this helps motivate me to put an honest effort in everything I do and to keep an open mind toward new experiences.
What has been an important learning experience in your life?
It would have to be my experience transitioning into first year at U of T. Being the first in my immediate family to go to university in Canada, adjusting was a big challenge. As a result, I learned a lot about being self-motivated and proactive towards my studies and responsibilities. Equally as important, I learned the value in taking a break and spending time to re-fuel.
Who is an influential person in your life and why?
My parents. They raised me to be stubborn in the face of challenges, supportive to those around me, and inspired in all that I do.
What would it surprise people to know about you?
I’m very irrationally scared of birds, especially small finches. There seems to be an inverse correlation between bird size and my fear. I can’t even begin to explain it, because I have no explanation for it.
What activities do you enjoy doing outside of work and studies?
When I have spare time, I like to bake sweet treats, try new cafes around the city, and spend time with friends and family. In the summers, I dragon boat and compete at local regattas.
What is your favourite album, film and novel?
Album – Depends on the vibe, but my go-to studying music is anything by Hozier
Film – I love Interstellar.
Novel – So many to chose from! I recently read What Strange Paradise by Omar El Akkad, and it was incredible.
Who would be your dream dinner guests?
Probably Dr. Mike Varshavski, I feel like he would have a lot of fun stories.
Where/what is your favourite place?
I would have to say Ohrid, Macedonia. It’s a city rich in history and where my family is from. Each time I visit my grandparents there, I am reminded of my childhood. Lake Ohrid is incredibly beautiful and worth visiting at least once in your life!
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?
I’ve always wanted to try scientific illustration. So, I would bring a microscope, to amplify tiny structures, and sketch book, to capture them.
