Each year, the Faculty of Science recognizes those graduates with outstanding academic achievements and community contributions. For the class of Spring '17, we are pleased to celebrate Dora Gyenes--recipient of the Dean's Gold Medal in Science for the graduating student from the general program with the highest distinction in scholarship--and Nora Nahornick, recipient of the Faculty of Science Gold Medal winner for highest academic distinction in a specialization program.
Hear from these two exemplary students on their University of Alberta experience, future plans, and advice for current and incoming students at the Faculty of Science.
Dora Gyenes
What has been your most memorable experience at the Faculty of Science?
When I was a senior science mentor in my second and third year, I ran the Twitter account for Ruby the Science Dog. I would post pictures that Dr. Leskiw would send me of Ruby around her home, let people know when she would be on campus next, or to just wish everyone a great day. It was really fun to try to get into Ruby's head and figure out what she wanted to say to the world!
I've finished my first year as a UAlberta Ambassador and my second year as a volunteer at the University of Alberta Sexual Assault Centre, where I am on the education committee, doing presentations about the issue of sexual assault for undergrad classes. As well, I coach figure skating and power skating to kids a couple nights a week during the school year.
What is next for you after graduation?
This summer, I will be living in Budapest for a month, studying the language, culture, and history of my native country as part of the Balassi Institute's Summer University Program, for which I received a scholarship from the Hungarian government.
I have been accepted into the medical class of 2021 at the University of Alberta, which I am very excited about. So, this fall, I will start medical school. I am interested in specializing in pediatrics or clinical genetics.
What advice do you have for your fellow students in the Faculty of Science?
Take one night off a week where you don't do any studying and have no other commitments like work or volunteering. Spend time with family or friends, or have the night for yourself to catch up on Grey's Anatomy or the Bachelor. All the homework CAN wait until tomorrow
Nora Nahornick
What has been your most memorable experience at the Faculty of Science?
My passion for mathematics changed when I sat in Math 214 taught by Christoph Frei. My interest, grown from a single course, led the way to continuing onto graduate studies and my aspiration to pursue financial mathematics.
My university experience has been shaped by meeting inspiring professors, being mentored by Dr. Frei, and having the opportunity to work on projects at the University of Alberta and beyond. Summer research gave me the opportunity to participate in conferences, explore interesting topics in mathematics, and gain a skill set that would not have been possible otherwise.
What is next for you after graduation?
Next year, I will be attending the University of Toronto, where I will pursue a doctoral stream masters program in economics.
What advice do you have for your fellow students in the Faculty of Science?
I have three pieces of advice for students: get to know your professors, get involved on campus, and start research as early as possible!
My university experiences have been broadened through volunteerism and activism. My biggest personal achievement has been my involvement with University of Alberta Women in Science and Engineering (UA-WiSE). Being involved in a variety of causes on campus has been one of the most rewarding experiences as I have had the opportunity to see the tangible differences made in the community.