What brought you to UPEI? Why did you choose to study here? 

I wanted to choose a university where the professors cared about their students' success. I heard from many former UPEI students that professors in the Chemistry department took pride in getting to know each student and genuinely wanted them to do well. After my amazing New Student Orientation experience, I knew immediately that I had chosen the right university!

What kinds of support have you received during your time here from UPEI students, staff, and faculty members?

I joined the UPEI Student Union in my first year at UPEI and have been a councillor ever since. Their staff members and student volunteers are extremely dedicated and have taught me so much about professionalism and leadership competencies. Career counsellors are also an excellent resource for all students, and their advisers offer helpful information, resources, and personal advice. UPEI also possesses a strong sense of community; there are plenty of student clubs and societies and everyone can find a group to belong.
 

"I genuinely would not have wanted to complete my undergraduate degree in Chemistry at any other university. The professors here will bend over backwards to accommodate their students. I’ve received such great support throughout my degree, along with invaluable mentoring and advice."

What kinds of opportunities have you experienced because you're studying at UPEI, or because of the Island location?

I grew up in Kensington, PEI so I had the chance to live at home my first two years and save some money. I moved into an apartment in Charlottetown for my third and fourth years, but I still travel home on the weekends to see my family. Because I chose to study at UPEI, I was eligible to apply for the Saint Dunstan’s Scholarship which I was fortunate to receive. This opportunity would not have been available to me had I chosen another university. I was also able to work as a student researcher for Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada thanks to connections with the Chemistry department and the organization. I love to babysit on the weekends and the close-knit community of PEI has allowed me to connect with many different families and have the chance to nanny children from multiple familial networks.

What's unique about UPEI, and Prince Edward Island, in your experience?

UPEI has a beautiful campus—especially in the fall when all the leaves are nice colours! PEI is a wonderful province, and we have lots of interesting and unique places to visit throughout the year. One of my favourite activities is to walk the beaches and look for pieces of sea glass during the summer. We also have lovely trails for walking and biking, which I love to take advantage of in the months of nice weather.
 

What would you tell a high school student considering UPEI’s chemistry program?

I would tell them that choosing to complete their BSc in Chemistry at UPEI would be a decision they would forever look back on with gratitude and appreciation. I genuinely would not have wanted to complete my undergraduate degree in Chemistry at any other university. The professors here will bend over backwards to accommodate their students. I’ve received such great support throughout my degree, along with invaluable mentoring and advice. I’ve met many wonderful students along the way! The skills I’ve developed and the connections I’ve made will serve me well not only in my future career, but in life in general.