Learning to think like scientists: U of T students reflect on their undergraduate journey

“I came to U of T from a small town in Nova Scotia looking for a program that would let me apply my analytical mindset to something with real-world impact. LMP stood out as the perfect bridge between foundational science and its practical applications, with the breadth of research opportunities and academic rigour I was looking for.

One of the most meaningful parts of my experience has been contributing to the LMP community. In a tight-knit program, I found fulfillment mentoring students, connecting with prospective applicants, and organizing events. Serving as Internal Affairs Liaison for the LMP Student Union (LMPSU) and helping bring our annual conference to life showed me what this community can accomplish together.

A major turning point was my research at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre under Dr. Susan Done, where I investigated molecular alterations in breast cancer. It was the first time I led my own projects and shared my work through presentations, which gave me confidence to approach complex problems with an investigative mindset. Her mentorship, along with others in the program and the support of my peers, shaped my journey. LMP taught me to think like a scientist - working backwards to understand disease at the molecular level and valuing independent inquiry.

After graduation, I hope to pursue medicine, applying these analytical skills to clinical challenges.”

My advice: Go for it. Even if you’re unsure of your path, this program gives you the space, support, and community to explore and grow.

“I began in a Neuroscience and Cell & Molecular Biology double major with a Chemistry minor. But as I explored more courses and met upper-year students, I was really drawn to the small, close-knit nature of the LMP program. Knowing the cohort would be around 30–35 students made it feel much more personal and collaborative. Pairing that with my growing interest in Nutritional Sciences felt like the perfect balance of community and curiosity, so I changed my program. Through LMP, I developed the ability to engage with primary research by breaking down complex papers and communicating them in an accessible way.

Some of my favourite memories come from being involved with the LMPSU (Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology Student Union) annual conference and socials. I loved volunteering - running around campus picking up pizzas - but more importantly, connecting with students across all years. Hosting events like “Battle of the Years” and “Midterm Mixer and Mingle” really showed me that sense of continuity within the LMP community.

One course stands out as a defining experience: LMP330H1 – Genetic and Computational Modeling in Human Development and Disease. Our entire cohort bonded over preparing for the final exam, and I still remember all of us gathered afterwards, half-joking and half-serious, just hoping we’d survived it - it turned stress into connection.

Dr. Jeffrey Lee had a huge impact on my journey. Even without being in his class, his presence and dedication to supporting students is something really special.

I’ll be staying in Toronto this summer to train and compete with the University College Dragon Boat Club, with races at the Toronto Islands, the Olympic Basin in Montréal, and in Taiwan. After that, I’ll be heading to New York to pursue a Master’s in Human Nutrition at Columbia University.”

My advice: Don’t stress too much about your GPA - focus on the relationships, experiences, and perspectives you gain along the way.

Catherine received the U of T Student Leadership Award this year! Find out more in LMP students recognized for community-focused leadership at U of T

“I was nervous about choosing a program while still unsure of my path, but by chance I met upper-year LMP students through Science Rendezvous. They told me about the program, the courses and the faculty, but most importantly, they were exactly the kind of brilliant people I wanted to grow alongside. Looking back, choosing LMP was one of the best decisions I made. LMP taught me that it’s not just about knowledge, but about how to learn, apply and think critically. It showed me how to approach complex problems like a scientist.

One of the most memorable moments was going to dinner after our final LMP exam in third year. It was the first time almost our entire cohort came together outside of class, and it really showed the strong sense of community we had built and how much we supported each other.

A defining experience for me was my involvement with Science Rendezvous. Starting as a Logistics Executive and eventually becoming a Co-Head, I learned that being a student at U of T is more than academics. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow as a leader.

Dr. Jeffrey Lee had a particularly strong influence on my journey. His consistent support, guidance and dedication to improving the student experience made a real difference in my undergraduate experience.

After graduation, I plan to take a gap year to gain clinical experience before continuing my academic journey.”

My advice: Don’t be afraid. The program is challenging, but if you put in the work, it will reward you and it’s absolutely worth it.

“I first learned about LMP at the LMPSU Annual Conference and was immediately impressed by how such a small program is supported by a large, dedicated faculty, creating a well-resourced and close-knit community. The curriculum also stood out to me and ultimately drew me in. 

Although initially intimidated by the high expectations, I’m really glad I chose LMP - it pushed me out of my comfort zone, especially in getting involved in research, and being surrounded by motivated peers has encouraged me to grow more than I expected. Through LMP, I learned to read scientific papers critically. I went from assuming authors were always right to questioning limitations and adapting ideas into my own work. This is a valuable skill I’ll carry forward.

My third year stands out as my most memorable. We saw each other every day, meeting for morning classes, grabbing lunch at MSB Café, and heading to lectures together. Those daily routines turned into relationships beyond academics. It’s a memory I know I’ll truly cherish.

LMP330 also had a major impact on me too. Although it was the most challenging course, it introduced us to animal models and concepts in machine learning and AI - knowledge that has continued to support me in both my research and studies.

I’ve been incredibly lucky to have strong support from friends, research supervisors who trusted me with opportunities to explore my potential, and mentors who patiently guided me through mistakes. Dr. Jeffrey Lee, in particular, has been especially influential, offering thoughtful guidance on many important decisions. I appreciate and admire his genuine investment in students.

After graduation, I plan to pursue a professional master’s in the US, followed by work experience before deciding between medicine or a PhD.” 

My advice: Take time to enjoy the experience, build meaningful friendships, and make the most of everything beyond academics.

“I discovered LMP when I attended the LMPSU Annual Conference. I originally went for the free food, but it ended up being a pivotal experience. I was struck not just by the research, but by how professors engaged with students - every question was treated with respect. After that, I looked more deeply into the program, and the combination of course breadth, focus on disease mechanisms, research opportunities, and small cohort size convinced me this was a place I could thrive.

Over the past three years, we have formed a really tight-knit community. Even during stressful or uncertain times, this community has always provided me support, guidance, and friendship. It has been one of the most meaningful aspects of the program for me.

Working in Dr. Dana Philpott’s lab was a defining experience. My research on NOD2 and metabolic function showed me what science actually looks like - troubleshooting, frustration, and those rewarding moments when things finally work. It shaped me as a researcher and as a person.

I’ve been incredibly fortunate to learn from mentors like Dr. Philpott, Dr. Jitender Yadav, Dr. Tapas Mukherjee, and Dr. Jeffrey Lee, as well as my peers, who have all been a constant source of support and inspiration.

LMP taught me to think critically, to ask “why,” analyze experimental design, and interpret data beyond surface-level conclusions.

After graduation, I hope to attend medical school while staying involved in research.” 

My advice: do it. It’s challenging, but the community, learning environment, and support make it absolutely worth it.”