SarahAnn Walker’s ULethbridge journey began in 2020 after her inspiring experience in the HYRS program. She discovered her passion for biochemistry while working in the University’s labs as a high school student. That spark led her to pursue a degree at ULethbridge, where her drive for learning and curiosity flourished. SarahAnn’s dreams are big and bold. She plans to pursue veterinary school to earn her DVM and hopes to combine that with a PhD, focusing on virology. Whether in a biotech company or a veterinary practice, she aims to make an impactful career.
My most memorable ULethbridge experience so far is my co-op at Allos Bioscience, a biotech start-up run by two University of Lethbridge students. I learned many different lab techniques and got to experience the biotech industry, where I met many amazing people.
Meet SarahAnn | Dog lover. Persistent. Kind.
Program: Bachelor of Science | Major: Biochemistry
Why did you choose ULethbridge?
I was selected to be part of the HYRS program at the University of Lethbridge when I was in high school and had an amazing time working in a lab. I got to meet many great people in the biochemistry labs and realized I liked biochemistry, helping me decide that this was where I wanted to go.
Did you know what you wanted to study before you came to ULethbridge?
I knew I loved the sciences, but did not know what exactly I wanted to do in the field. I am now thinking about getting my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
Please tell us about your experiential or work-integrated learning at ULethbridge.
I have had the chance to do co-op, applied studies and independent studies with different biotech companies and in Dr. Trushar Patel's lab here at the University of Lethbridge. Through these experiences, I learned a lot and got the chance to figure out what I want to do in the future. I worked with local biotech companies, and one in the USA, which gave me a chance to see what types of jobs are out there, and I got to meet many interesting people.
Takeaways:
- It is important to integrate and apply all the content learned in classes.
- You have to try different labs and jobs to find out what you want.
- Ask questions and be curious to make sure you learn as much as you can.
What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience so far?
My most memorable ULethbridge experience so far is my co-op at Allos Bioscience, a biotech start-up run by two University of Lethbridge students. I learned many different lab techniques and got to experience the biotech industry, where I met many amazing people.
How have your professors impacted your education?
Working in Dr. Patel's lab has helped me realize I want to study and get my PhD in a lab that studies viruses.
Is there anyone else who had an important influence on your ULethbridge experience?
Dr. Patel's lab and all of the people in Science Commons level 9 quad 1 have been supportive and helpful as I am working through my degree. It has been where I met some of my closest friends. Also, my co-op coordinators were important as they helped me set up and supported me during the different co-ops and applied studies.
SarahAnn is a very hard-working undergraduate student who excelled in biochemistry research work and volunteering activities while maintaining grades to be qualified for the Dean's list. – Dr. Trushar Patel, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry
Have you received any scholarships and awards?
I have received some scholarships and awards that have helped lessen the financial burden of post-secondary and enabled me to have time to take advantage of different opportunities, such as doing work-integrated learning along with classes.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy painting, reading and hanging out with my friends and my dog Milo.
What are your hopes/plans for the future?
Right now, I am thinking about applying to vet school and hope to be able to get my DVM. After I might get my PhD, hopefully in virology, and work at a biotech company or as a vet.
What advice would you like to give those about to begin their journey at ULethbridge?
Take advantage of the work-integrated learning opportunities through co-ops, applied studies and independent studies; it will help you decide what jobs you want and will give you the chance to connect with a variety of people.
Quick Answers
Favourite class: My Independent Study: Analysis of Honeybee Protein and Sacbrood Virus Non-coding RNA Interactions
Favourite place to study: Science Commons
Photos submitted by SarahAnn
About Shining Students
Shining Students engage inside and outside of the classroom. What makes a student shine may differ from person to person, but they all share a passion for learning. They may be top students, involved in an innovative project, participating in ground-breaking research, playing Pronghorn athletics, fighting for social issues or all of the above! When students find something they enjoy and combine it with what they are good at, they shine.
Each year, the Faculty of Arts & Science's faculty and staff nominate students who exemplify the ULethbridge student spirit. Congratulations SarahAnn!