Shining Student Mark Lea

Mark Lea has immersed himself in ULethbridge's liberal education foundation to improve his intellectual and practical skills. He has completed independent and applied studies in chemistry while continuing to pursue his love of music.

The best experience I have had at ULethbridge is completing a music minor along with my chemistry degree, especially with the opportunity to study in Dr. Bradley Parker’s piano studio. I assumed that I would have to give up music entirely if I wanted to pursue my education in chemistry, but ULethbridge has provided me with the wonderful opportunity to continue improving my skills as both a scientist and a musician.

Meet Mark| Dedicated. Compassionate. Conscientious.
Program: Bachelor of Science| Major: Chemistry

Why did you choose ULethbridge?

The liberal education foundation of the ULethbridge curriculum expands students' understanding of different academic disciplines. I chose to study at ULethbridge for this reason, which has allowed me to improve my intellectual and practical skills. Particularly, I have appreciated the emphasis placed on engaging with different instructors in a research setting. It is an incredible experience to work with experts who have dedicated their lives to their field and have the desire to share their knowledge with others.

Please tell us about your work-integrated learning experiences at ULethbridge.

I have been able to apply my knowledge through independent studies courses and a combined independent-applied studies course. Two of my independent studies courses have been in chemistry, where I have researched computer modelling of nucleic acid systems in Dr. Stacey Wetmore’s computational group. These experiences were invaluable for developing my critical thinking skills and fully appreciating the scientific method. Furthermore, I have gained technical skills that I did not consider part of this area.

In my independent and applied studies course, instructed by Dr. Angeliki Pantazi, the PI of the ULethbridge International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) team and Brandy Old, the manager of the Agility program, I have been able to apply the principles of entrepreneurship and develop an effective business model with my iGEM team. The independent study aspect of this course allowed me to incorporate the technical skills gained from my computational chemistry research experience into creating a mathematical model of our system. The experiential learning opportunities uLethbridge offers are highly useful and will develop your skills and abilities in many different overlapping areas.

What has been your most memorable ULethbridge experience?

The best experience I have had at ULethbridge is completing a music minor along with my chemistry degree, especially with the opportunity to study in Dr. Bradley Parker’s piano studio. I assumed that I would have to give up music entirely if I wanted to pursue my education in chemistry, but ULethbridge has provided me with the wonderful opportunity to continue improving my skills as both a scientist and a musician.

What is the most important lesson you have learned so far at ULethbridge?

University can be very stressful, but your own mental and physical health should always be prioritized over grades. Start studying early, if possible; this allows you to reduce the amount of stress you have before the exam. It’s okay to drop or withdraw from a class.

Is there someone specific who has had an important influence on your ULethbridge experience?

My piano studio professor, Dr. Parker, has been a very important influence in my ULethbridge experience. He has accommodated my often conflicting class schedule as a chemistry major. He is an extremely passionate and driven musician who I am very grateful to have the opportunity to be taught by.

Is there anything you wish you knew in your first semester that you know now?

Study efficiently—spending more time does not necessarily mean you will get better results. Constantly test yourself; you can only know that you understand a concept if you are able to apply or explain it by memory. Your lecture notes should be a summary. This will ensure you pay attention and understand most of the concepts. You only need to write down a few words that will cue your long-term memory later during the exam.

What advice would you give to those about to begin their ULethbridge journey?

Take advantage of the liberal education format and find other areas you are interested in. Ask a lot of questions in class and go to office hours often.

Favourite class: Psychology 1000

Favourite social activity at ULethbridge: Hanging out with friends

Favourite place to study: My desk