How did you come to be in your program?
I have been interested in biology and chemistry since I started my undergraduate study. During my previous work experience, I had the opportunity to work with research and data and since then I have become interested in data science and decided to pursue a Master of Science degree.
After I had the opportunity to talk with Dr. Tu about biostatistics, I decided to apply for the MSc in Biostatistics degree at Queen’s University. It was a degree combining biological science with statistical knowledge, and it is what I am interested in. Then, I later realized that is also what I want to do for my career.
What challenges have you had with the pandemic, and how did you overcome/deal with them?
Since the pandemic is unprecedented, all of us were in shock at the beginning. I did not have the chance to say goodbye to my colleagues in person. While everyone started moving back home, I was concerned about them. Thankfully, they all got home safely.
Though the last few weeks of classes were conducted online, the amount of work did not decrease. The faculty, and classmates were all there supporting each other. Together, we made it through.
For me personally, my daughter was only a few months old. With a baby at home, it was very challenging to concentrate and stay focused. Thanks to the support of my family, I could finish my classes and final exams successfully.
What are your hopes and plans?
My plan is to find a job in a clinical-research organization, and to gain more experience in clinical research and statistical data analysis.
Anything else that you think helps our readers understand who you are, and what you stand for?
When I decided to pursue a Master’s degree, I was single. But when I started, I had become married and a mother. I think I stand for young adults who already have a family. When I started my graduate degree in this new field of study, I realized that it was much more challenging than I had expected. With the help from my classmates, friends, professors and family, I was able to complete my courses successfully.
I want to thank my supervisor Dongsheng Tu for his tremendous support academically and practically during my study at Queen’s University. I also want to thank the department for your support, especially in rescheduling my semesters. Without all of your help, I could not have done it. I also want to thank all the professors for their professional teaching and instructing. I have learned statistical knowledge, and have been inspired by their passion for research and teaching.
With all of your help and support, students like me can accomplish the degree successfully and bring societal values back to the community.
Post-secondary Awards
Undergraduate Awards:
- Gold Medal for Achievement, 2015
- Dean’s Honour List-Student of Highest Distinction, 2013-2014
- Academic Proficiency Scholarship-Winnipeg Rh Institute, 2014
- Campbell K..Shepherd Memorial Scholarship, 2013
- ASA Salem Abd-El-Aziz International Student, 2013
- Honorable Mention of the 8th Randy Kobes’ Poster Contest, 2013
Financial Awards while in your program
- Dean’s Award, 2019
- Queen’s Graduate Awards, 2018-2020
Volunteer Work
- Siloam Mission, 2013-2018
- The Children’s Hospital of Winnipeg, 2011
Relevant Employment
- Statistical Programmer Intern, 2019-2020 (4 months)
- Data Manager at Monsanto Canada, 2017-2018
- Research Assistant at Monsanto Canada, 2015-2017