Faces of WISEST: Dr. Chantalle Grant

I was always an ‘artsy’ kid, and even at an early age, I had written myself off as one of those people who just wouldn't ever be good at science. Fortunately, I had an elementary school teacher who thought differently: she told me I should consider attending the WISEST CHOICES Conference as she thought I did have an aptitude for science. I attended the conference and spent the day extracting bitumen, spreading ‘diseases’, and watching explosions. By the end of the day, I was hooked. This experience spurred me to apply to the WISEST Summer Research Program in 2006, where I was accepted to work in a biochemistry lab with amazing mentors who showed me that I could succeed in an area less traditional for my gender. 

Since then, I have worked in research labs, published scientific papers, and completed a Bachelor of Science (Cell & Molecular Biology), Master of Science (Clinical Epidemiology), and Doctor of Medicine.  After medical school, I had my doubts about applying to become a surgeon, a career that is traditionally male-dominated. However, my time with WISEST had taught me not to count myself out on behalf of my gender. Now, I am a surgical resident at the University of Alberta, close to finishing my training to be a surgeon. I owe so much to the WISEST program for helping break down barriers to a career in science and giving me the confidence and resiliency to pursue a career beyond what I ever thought I was capable of doing.