Keira Rawlinson, BSc Major in Physiology, Dean’s Gold Medal in Science

Keira Rawlinson, BSc Major in Physiology, Dean’s Gold Medal in Science

For Keira Rawlinson, arriving at the University of Alberta from her hometown of Lacombe, AB was the first step in turning a passion for human biology into a concrete academic pursuit. Enrolled in the physiology program, she kept an open mind — a strategy that paid off when she unexpectedly fell in love with biochemistry and promptly added it as a minor.

Like so many of her peers, her university experience wasn't without its moments of late-night questioning, but by embracing the uncertainty, leaning on the support of her friends and family, and simply just figuring it out as she went along, she transformed a journey of exploration into a deeply rewarding academic triumph.

Beyond navigating the natural twists and turns of her degree, Keira’s commitment to excellence earned her the Dean’s Gold Medal in Science — an honour reserved annually for the graduate who has shown the highest distinction in scholarship from the BSc General or Major programs in the Faculty of Science.

Today, she graduates not just with a degree, but with the confidence of someone who found her true footing along the way.

Congratulations Keira!

What program are you graduating from?

The Bachelor of Science with Major in Physiology and a biochemistry minor.

What led you to choose your current area of study, and why the U of A for your studies?

I’ve always loved learning about the body, so I thought a physiology program would be right up my alley! When applying to universities, I didn’t feel drawn to a particular school, but I ultimately chose the U of A because of its great reputation and its proximity to my hometown of Lacombe, AB. Then, in the second and third years of my degree, I had to take a few biochemistry classes and I unexpectedly fell in love with the subject, so I decided to make it my minor. Truthfully, like many students, I had endless moments of doubt (and several existential crises) as I questioned whether I was on the right path, but ultimately I really enjoyed my program. I think most of us don’t really have a clue what we’re doing and are just figuring it out as we go, and that’s okay!

Tell us about your experience in your faculty.

I had a great experience in the Faculty of Science. I feel lucky to have been taught by some extremely talented, dedicated and passionate professors. I am also grateful for all of the hardworking and supportive teaching assistants involved in many of my courses and labs.

What is one of your favourite memories from your time at U of A?

My favourite memories at the U of A are just the simple moments spent with friends. Throughout my degree, I was lucky to have the opportunity to take a few classes with my twin sister and some childhood friends, and to meet many wonderful new people. However, school was only one aspect of my life throughout these past four years, and I have countless great memories from my time off-campus: living with my sister and near some of our closest friends who also moved to Edmonton, meeting some of my favourite people at my place of work and going for many margarita Mondays together, attending Oilers watch parties, going to a concert, traveling and welcoming my baby niece into the family!

Tell us about your favourite professor and/or class.

My absolute favorite professor was Dr. Shereen Hamza. I took three of her physiology courses, and I especially loved PHYSL 400 (Reproductive Physiology). In all of her courses, Dr. Hamza curates the most interesting and unique learning materials and assessments. Above all, she roots for the success of every one of her students and pours her heart into her work. She is truly a gem and I cannot give her enough praise.

Another one of my favourite professors was Dr. Matthew Johnson. He genuinely loves his students, and his HECOL 210 (Intimate Relationships) course was the most fun and relevant course I took throughout my whole degree (although, I’m still not a relationship expert by any means).

What advice do you have for current and future students?

My biggest piece of advice would be to take some pressure off of yourself and to not take yourself too seriously. I think that the environment in the science programs is often quite competitive and students can be extremely cutthroat. It’s easy to feel inadequate and insecure (and sometimes plain stupid) in that kind of setting, so I think it’s really important to block out all that noise and give yourself a lot of grace. Be confident in your own abilities and keep showing up.

At the same time, try not to stack yourself up against your friends and peers. We’re all trying to get to the same place, so we need to lift each other up. Also, try to realize that school isn’t everything. Make time for friends, family, relationships, work, hobbies and fun. Enjoy these exciting years of your life and don’t let school consume you. Ironically, once you stop putting all that pressure on yourself, you often start to flourish!

How do you plan on celebrating convocation?

I will be celebrating convocation by going out for dinner with my family, who helped me immeasurably throughout my degree, and having a few get-togethers with friends!

What's next after graduation?

This summer, I will be working, volunteering and studying for the MCAT. Afterward, I plan on taking some time off to travel/work abroad before returning to school!

Keira joins fellow medal recipients Alex Cross (Gold Medal in Science) and Christopher Moore (Lieutenant-Governor's Gold Medal, Governor-General’s Silver Medal).