Shining Student Alyssa Groves

In looking for a university, Alyssa Groves sought one that offered incredible undergraduate research opportunities. At the University of Lethbridge, she found this within the Department of Biological Sciences and the Research Internship Concentration. Alyssa's involvement in research early on in her degree enabled her to define the area of medicine she intends to pursue after graduation. She now plans to become a physician and work in rural Albertan communities.

I have worked on multiple projects within the biology research labs looking at developmental genetics in plants and the medicinal benefits of phytocannabinoids and psilocybin.

Meet Alyssa | Determined. Genuine. Passionate.
Program: Bachelor of Science | Major: Biological Sciences

Please tell us a bit about your experiential or work-integrated learning at ULethbridge.

I have participated in research through the Research Internship Concentration and independent studies. This has allowed me to work on multiple projects within the biology research labs looking at developmental genetics in plants and the medicinal benefits of phytocannabinoids and psilocybin. These experiences have taught me lab skills, critical thinking, leadership, and an appreciation for the enormity and intricacies of biological research.

What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience so far?

My most memorable ULethbridge experience has been working in the research labs. This experience has allowed me to participate in the incredible and cutting-edge work happening at ULethbridge. The work I did in the labs also allowed me to present my research at the Canadian Society for Pharmaceuticals and Therapeutics Annual Meeting in Montreal this fall. Attending this meeting allowed me to meet so many incredible people from around the world who are all doing amazing research.

How have your professors impacted your education?

The professors here are amazing! I have learned so much by sitting and talking to my professors in their offices. They are always willing to help and offer advice, which has helped me so much throughout my time at the university.

Alyssa is curious about everything and asks infectious questions that makes the whole class more dynamic. – Dr. Elizabeth Schultz, Department of Biological Sciences, nominated Alyssa as a Shining Students.

Have you received any scholarships and awards? If so, please tell us a bit about how they helped you throughout your studies.

I have received many scholarships and awards during my time at ULethbridge. These awards have been incredibly beneficial to my studies. Attending university is expensive, and these awards have taken some of the financial stress off me while I complete my studies. This has allowed me to focus more of my time and energy on succeeding in my classes and less time worried about how I will pay for my schooling.

I am so appreciative of the donors that have supported me in my studies. Their support has ensured that I can pursue my goals without the stress of my finances weighing me down.

What are your hopes/plans for the future?

My plan for the future is to attend medical school and then work as a doctor in the rural communities of Southern Alberta.

What advice would you like to give those who are about to begin their journey at ULethbridge?

My advice to those about to start university is to take every opportunity offered to you. There are so many possibilities for what you can achieve and accomplish if you work hard and take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. It is easy to just "go with the flow," taking a different road requires passion and hard work, but the rewards for your dedication will make it all worth it.

Quick Answers

Favourite class: Principles of Genetics

Favourite social activity at ULethbridge: U of L Agricultural Club Activities

Favourite place to study: Study rooms in the Science Commons

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 Alyssa!