The NMHI is proud to announce that Parnian Riaz, who has completed her BSc Honours Degree in Neuroscience this year, is the 2014 recipient of the Lieutenant-Governor's Gold Medal from the Faculty of Science as well as one of three graduating students across the entire University to receive the Governor General's Silver Medal. The Lieutenant-Governor's Gold Medal is the single most prestigious award given by the Faculty of Science to a graduating student. This highly competitive award is given to the convocating student from an Honours program in the Faculty of Science who has shown the highest distinction in scholarship. Her second award, the Governor General's Silver Medal, is awarded annually to the three undergraduate students who achieve the highest academic standing overall upon graduation from his/her Bachelor degree program. The Governor General's Silver Medal, along with the RT Honourable CD Howe Memorial Fellowship, recognize the top academic students graduating from an undergraduate degree program. They are the most prestigious convocating undergraduate awards awarded by the University of Alberta.
Congratulations Parnian for your tremendous accomplishment!
Tell us a little about your background.
I went to high school in Peace River, a rural community in Northern Alberta. I was very involved in high school - I regularly volunteered both in my school and in the community. I also had some research experience at the University of Alberta while still in high school. In my spare time I enjoy sketching, roller blading, and reading.
Why did you choose to go into Neuroscience?
I first became interested in neuroscience after learning about the nervous system in my Bio30 class in high school. I found it fascinating how this small organ can intricately control every part of the body, and I wanted to learn more. I then competed in a National Brain Bee competition at the end of grade 12, which tested on neuroanatomy, neurological disorders, and neurodevelopment. This experience allowed me to explore many of the fundamental concepts of neuroscience, which inspired me to pursue this subject for my undergraduate degree.
Neuroscience is a new and exciting field that has an unlimited number of research opportunities available. I have been doing stroke neuroimaging research for the last couple of years, both during the summers and as part of my honours thesis project. In February of this year, I was able to attend the International Stroke Conference in San Diego to present my research. This was such an incredible opportunity - I was able to discuss my research with so many people, including practiced experts from around the world. The Neuroscience program was invaluable in giving me the opportunity to explore various aspects of neuroscience from both a clinical and basic science perspective, which allowed me to find an area of research that I greatly enjoy.
What were your favourite memories?
My favourite part of the university experience was being able to meet so many incredible people, both professors and students. There were so many people who inspired and mentored me throughout my undergrad, and I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to meet them all. I met some of my best friends here at the U of A, and three of my closest friends were in the Neuroscience program. In 4th year, the four of us were on campus until midnight, scrambling to get our papers and research done in time. It was one of the most stressful experiences of my life, but also the most fun because of the company I had.
What is the key to your success?
My parents played a huge role in my success. Their unlimited love and support helped me persevere through all the hurdles and stress of university. I never would have gotten to where I am now without them. After that, hard work, motivation, and passion are what drove me. I loved what I was learning, and that helped me push forward. Life is too short to waste time doing something you're not passionate about.
What are your future plans?
I've been accepted into the MD program here at the University of Alberta, which will commence in September 2014. I'm very excited to continue my studies here!