What does it mean to be a good student?

It means having good grades, but it involves so much more.  Getting the most out of your university experience, taking advantage of options like research opportunities with scientists, co-op programs, exchange programs and volunteering your time with different organizations on campus. 

We have profiled three of our students, but take the opportunity to "Meet People in Science".  Learn more about what scientists do in our "Research Story" pages.

As Melissa advises, make the most out of your time here.

Melissa Bailey

Melissa Bailey, winner of the 2010 Rhodes Scholarship, National Co-op Student of the year and a Let's Talk Science coordinator says, "ACADEMICS ARE IMPORTANT, BUT… It's just as important to challenge yourself physically, creatively and intellectually. Be involved in the greater community; work, volunteer, share your love for science/history/art etc., and travel. 

Outside of her busy schedule as an aerial dancer and a full-time co-op student, she shared her love of science through the Let's Talk Science program, working with youth in the province.

Find out more about Melissa's student experience:

• Winning the Rhodes and her advice to students
• Winning the Co-op Student of the Year Award

"THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX. Go against the norm. At university it is very easy to become comfortable and fall into the same pattern as everyone else. Remember, an undergrad is only 3-4 years of your life so make the most out of it, and take courses that will challenge and inspire you. In the end, they will only make you a better student."

David Tang was influenced by MENTORS THAT HELPED HIM ALONG THE WAY. As a result, he was inspired to find ways to give back to the community, devoting his spare time to the revival of the Let's Talk Science outreach program at the University of Manitoba.

Under David's leadership, LTS saw an increase in both VOLUNTEERS and OUTREACH ACTIVITIES including the first All Science Challenge run at the University of Manitoba, involving 30 youth from from grades 6,7, and 8 from Manitoba schools.  He made concerted efforts to encourage and support volunteers to bring science enrichment activities to students who might not otherwises have these opportunities, creating partnerships with the Boys' and Girls' clubs, Rossbrook House and the Aboriginal Headstart Biomedical Youth Program. 

For his trailblazing efforts, David won the Let's Talk Science National Site Coordinator award.  As David says:  “WE ARE A TEAM WITH A LOT OF HEART.” 

Find out more about David's student experience:

• Bringing Science to Youth in the Community
• National Site Coordinator Award Announcement

Jacqueline Richelle

As a high school student, Jacqueline Richelle was scouted by a MODELLING AGENCY and even did a two-month overseas modelling stint.  However, she wanted to keep her options open, and took her physics textbook with her so that she could write her exams when she returned home.  Jacqueline finally decided to pursue a university-related career: “I did well in school, and I wanted to make use of that potential.  In the long term, I decided it would be more fulfilling to have a science-related career.  Modeling was more for fun than for a career.”

Jacqueline chose the Faculty of Science at the University of Manitoba because of the WIDE RANGE OF AVAILABLE OPTIONS.  As an undergraduate, working in Dr. Judy Anderson's lab, the opportunity for international travel came her way again.  This time sharing the technique perfected in Anderson's lab with groups of internationa researchers.

Learn more about Jacqueline's journey:

• From Runway Model to Model Student