School of Graduate Studies Medal of Merit Winner Jaxon Reiter
Curiosity, connection and a passion for teaching have shaped School of Graduate Studies Medal of Merit winner Jaxon Reiter's (MSc '25, BSc '22) path through the University of Lethbridge. As a first-generation university student, he found purpose not only in his research on plant genetics and development, but also in the classroom — where he spent six years developing materials and leading tutorials for a biology course and also taught many courses as a graduate teaching assistant. Teaching became one of the most meaningful parts of his time at ULethbridge, helping him grow as both an educator and a learner. This fall, he’ll begin a PhD in Botany and Plant Biology at the University of California, Riverside, with plans to pursue a career as a botanist and teacher.
Meet Jaxon| Medal won: School of Graduate Studies Medal of Merit
Program: Master of Science | Major: Biological Sciences
What does this academic recognition mean to you?
I am incredibly grateful to have been selected to receive this award. As a first-generation university student with a motivation for academic inquiry and a desire to contribute meaningfully to my field, this recognition means more to me than words can fully express. This recognition encourages me to continue pursuing my goals in research and higher education.
What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience?
My most memorable experiences at the University of Lethbridge took place in the classroom through my teaching.
One experience that stands out is when I began teaching tutorials and developing materials for a biology course during my undergraduate program. This experience not only helped me grow as both a learner and an educator, but also enabled me to support others in their academic journeys at our institution. It remains one of the most meaningful parts of my time at the university, and I am deeply grateful to all of the students I had the privilege to teach.
What is the most important lesson you learned during your time at ULethbridge?
The most important thing I learned is to stay passionate about what you enjoy and to make time to remain curious and fascinated by your chosen field of study. It’s also important to recognize the value of extracurricular activities, as they play a key role in making your university experience more well-rounded and fulfilling. For me, these experiences included student governance with the Graduate Students' Association, teaching and volunteering.
Is there someone specific who had an important influence on your ULethbridge experience?
I would like to thank my supervisor, Dr. Elizabeth Schultz, for all the opportunities and guidance that she has provided to me since my first summer as an undergraduate working in her lab. It is because of her unrelenting support, kindness, and knowledge that I have been able to grow as a student and researcher throughout both my undergraduate and graduate degrees. Words cannot fully express how thankful I am for all that she has done for me, and I will always look back upon our time together with extreme gratitude and fondness.
I also express my gratitude to Jenny Burke for her guidance, support, and friendship, and for making the university a safe and welcoming place where students are supported and teaching excellence is valued. I aspire to become a teacher who can match, even in part, the remarkable skill, kindness and influence that she has.
What advice would you give to those about to begin their journey at ULethbridge?
Recognize the value of connecting with your professors, classmates and university members. Building relationships and staying curious can open doors to opportunities you may not have even known existed. Some of my most meaningful academic and professional experiences began simply by asking questions and engaging with the people around me.
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