What Arts & Science means to me:
The Arts & Science program provided me with the flexibility to explore different topics that were of interest to me. Without this flexibility, I likely would never have discovered neuropsychology, which is my passion. This program has also taught me how to hone many different skills, such as public speaking, writing, thinking critically, and much more. I am so grateful for everything I learned during my four years in this program.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I am currently in the Neuroscience graduate program at UBC!

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
This program is amazing! It will challenge you in so many different and wonderful ways and push you to become the best version of yourself. Take advantage of the flexibility of this program and explore everything that interests you! This will help you discover different topics you may not know about or further solidify your interest in a specific area.

What Arts & Science means to me:
The Arts & Science program provided me with the flexibility to explore different topics that were of interest to me. Without this flexibility, I likely would never have discovered neuropsychology, which is my passion. This program has also taught me how to hone many different skills, such as public speaking, writing, thinking critically, and much more. I am so grateful for everything I learned during my four years in this program.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I am currently in the Neuroscience graduate program at UBC!

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
This program is amazing! It will challenge you in so many different and wonderful ways and push you to become the best version of yourself. Take advantage of the flexibility of this program and explore everything that interests you! This will help you discover different topics you may not know about or further solidify your interest in a specific area.

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science allowed me the space to explore my specific passions, but it also pushed me to think in new ways through mandatory courses I likely would not have chosen otherwise. It instilled confidence in my ability to learn new skills and problem solve. At the same time, through being surrounded by brilliant, fun, and thoughtful peers, I was reminded of how much I do not know, and how necessary it is to lean on my community. Plus, I am so grateful to have met my closest friends in Artsci!

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I am now in my first year of McMaster’s Midwifery Education Program, where I am training to provide primary healthcare to pregnant clients and their babies during pregnancy, labour, and the postpartum period.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Apply for things you want to do that you do not think you are qualified for–don’t prematurely reject yourself! Mostly, enjoy your time in Artsci and do not stress about whether or not you are enjoying your time in Artsci correctly (you are).

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science allowed me the space to explore my specific passions, but it also pushed me to think in new ways through mandatory courses I likely would not have chosen otherwise. It instilled confidence in my ability to learn new skills and problem solve. At the same time, through being surrounded by brilliant, fun, and thoughtful peers, I was reminded of how much I do not know, and how necessary it is to lean on my community. Plus, I am so grateful to have met my closest friends in Artsci!

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I am now in my first year of McMaster’s Midwifery Education Program, where I am training to provide primary healthcare to pregnant clients and their babies during pregnancy, labour, and the postpartum period.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Apply for things you want to do that you do not think you are qualified for–don’t prematurely reject yourself! Mostly, enjoy your time in Artsci and do not stress about whether or not you are enjoying your time in Artsci correctly (you are).

What Arts & Science means to me:
In Artsci, I found a community of people with diverse interests and passions but similar values and ethics. No matter where I go in life, geographically or in my career, I will always have my Artsci cohort to seek advice and learn from.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I am currently completing my Master of Environment and Sustainability. Artsci allowed me to have the freedom to take a variety of environment and sustainability courses from a variety of different perspectives such as science, peace, health, and business. Not being siloed meant I developed a holistic view of climate issues which is invaluable in my education and work.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
University and life are hard, but don’t forget to take the time to self-reflect!

What Arts & Science means to me:
In Artsci, I found a community of people with diverse interests and passions but similar values and ethics. No matter where I go in life, geographically or in my career, I will always have my Artsci cohort to seek advice and learn from.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I am currently completing my Master of Environment and Sustainability. Artsci allowed me to have the freedom to take a variety of environment and sustainability courses from a variety of different perspectives such as science, peace, health, and business. Not being siloed meant I developed a holistic view of climate issues which is invaluable in my education and work.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
University and life are hard, but don’t forget to take the time to self-reflect!

What Arts & Science means to me:
In Artsci, I was surrounded by a community of people who were similarly curious about the world and eager to explore big questions. I left with a foundational vocabulary in so many different disciplines that continues to serve me well as I navigate the world.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
Artsci was formative in my own understanding about what it means to have a career and to lead an examined life. After graduating from Artsci I spent some time working and travelling before deciding to pursue graduate studies in urban planning. Though my work today is more disciplinary focused, my daily practice continues to be informed by the ideas and skills that I developed in literature tutorials, Social and Political Thought (SPT) lectures, inquiry classes, and every informal conversation in between.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Embrace every opportunity to ask questions: of your peers, of your professors, and of yourself. I don’t know of any other space where I could debate the political philosophy of urban desire paths in one minute, and unpack the technical aspects of an advanced calculus problem in the next, but I’m grateful for every minute.

What Arts & Science means to me:
In Artsci, I was surrounded by a community of people who were similarly curious about the world and eager to explore big questions. I left with a foundational vocabulary in so many different disciplines that continues to serve me well as I navigate the world.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
Artsci was formative in my own understanding about what it means to have a career and to lead an examined life. After graduating from Artsci I spent some time working and travelling before deciding to pursue graduate studies in urban planning. Though my work today is more disciplinary focused, my daily practice continues to be informed by the ideas and skills that I developed in literature tutorials, Social and Political Thought (SPT) lectures, inquiry classes, and every informal conversation in between.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Embrace every opportunity to ask questions: of your peers, of your professors, and of yourself. I don’t know of any other space where I could debate the political philosophy of urban desire paths in one minute, and unpack the technical aspects of an advanced calculus problem in the next, but I’m grateful for every minute.

What Arts & Science means to me:
To me, Arts & Science is a rare undergraduate program where the central focus is on learning, rather than education as a means to an end. The Arts & Science program allowed me to explore diverse academic interests across the university, it challenged me to think critically, and it opened me up to a community of curious individuals with an incredibly wide range of interests. I am very grateful for the Arts & Science program’s interdisciplinary, inquiry-based approach to learning, and I know I will stay in close touch with my Arts & Science friends and peers.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After I graduated from the Arts & Science program last spring, I started my first year of medical school at Western University. Next year, I will be taking a year of absence from medical school to complete a graduate degree in Practical Ethics in the UK, to deepen my understanding of bioethics and philosophy. I hope to combine my interests in philosophy and ethics with my medical studies to contribute to the growing field of medical ethics as I move forwards with my medical training.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Do not feel like you have to follow a rigid, “traditional” path to enter the field of post-graduate study or work that you wish. Choose the courses and extra-curricular activities that interest you the most, even if they are in areas in which you have little background. By making the most of the time you have to learn and test out your interests, you will develop the best understanding of where you would like to go in the future.

What Arts & Science means to me:
To me, Arts & Science is a rare undergraduate program where the central focus is on learning, rather than education as a means to an end. The Arts & Science program allowed me to explore diverse academic interests across the university, it challenged me to think critically, and it opened me up to a community of curious individuals with an incredibly wide range of interests. I am very grateful for the Arts & Science program’s interdisciplinary, inquiry-based approach to learning, and I know I will stay in close touch with my Arts & Science friends and peers.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After I graduated from the Arts & Science program last spring, I started my first year of medical school at Western University. Next year, I will be taking a year of absence from medical school to complete a graduate degree in Practical Ethics in the UK, to deepen my understanding of bioethics and philosophy. I hope to combine my interests in philosophy and ethics with my medical studies to contribute to the growing field of medical ethics as I move forwards with my medical training.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Do not feel like you have to follow a rigid, “traditional” path to enter the field of post-graduate study or work that you wish. Choose the courses and extra-curricular activities that interest you the most, even if they are in areas in which you have little background. By making the most of the time you have to learn and test out your interests, you will develop the best understanding of where you would like to go in the future.

What Arts & Science means to me:
Choosing Artsci for undergrad was the best decision I could have made. It introduced me to a tight-knit support system of intelligent, fun, and open-minded people. It provided an educational experience that made me grow as a writer and researcher (and occasional physics experimenter!). I am so grateful for all the learnings and friendships that I gained from Artsci, and I look forward to all the ways in which they will continue to reappear in my life.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
This past fall of 2021, I started law school at the University of Toronto. Artsci prepared me well for the transition to law school, especially in terms of writing and critical thinking… and of course the volume of readings! At the UofT, I will be completing a joint program in Aboriginal Legal Studies, as I hope to pursue a career in Indigenous Law after graduation. Helping to create important system change in Canada with respect to Indigenous rights has been a long-standing interest of mine. I was lucky for opportunities I had to explore this area in and alongside my Artsci education at Mac.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Enjoy the journey! While the Artsci degree leads to many amazing post-grad paths, the best part about it is the four years you spend in the program. Don’t worry too much about grades, or about things people tell you to do for certain career paths — focus instead on trying new and different courses/extracurriculars just for the sake of it! You might get a better sense of the kinds of issues that you want to solve after you graduate, and the rest will fall into place.

What Arts & Science means to me:
Choosing Artsci for undergrad was the best decision I could have made. It introduced me to a tight-knit support system of intelligent, fun, and open-minded people. It provided an educational experience that made me grow as a writer and researcher (and occasional physics experimenter!). I am so grateful for all the learnings and friendships that I gained from Artsci, and I look forward to all the ways in which they will continue to reappear in my life.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
This past fall of 2021, I started law school at the University of Toronto. Artsci prepared me well for the transition to law school, especially in terms of writing and critical thinking… and of course the volume of readings! At the UofT, I will be completing a joint program in Aboriginal Legal Studies, as I hope to pursue a career in Indigenous Law after graduation. Helping to create important system change in Canada with respect to Indigenous rights has been a long-standing interest of mine. I was lucky for opportunities I had to explore this area in and alongside my Artsci education at Mac.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Enjoy the journey! While the Artsci degree leads to many amazing post-grad paths, the best part about it is the four years you spend in the program. Don’t worry too much about grades, or about things people tell you to do for certain career paths — focus instead on trying new and different courses/extracurriculars just for the sake of it! You might get a better sense of the kinds of issues that you want to solve after you graduate, and the rest will fall into place.

What Artsci means to John

What Arts & Science means to me:
No word describes my Arts & Science experience as succinctly as “community.” I feel unbelievably fortunate to have been in Artsci when I did, to have had the professors and staff I did, and to have met the peers I did. It provided a stimulating and inviting environment for me to explore my identity and my annoyingly broad interests. Not being alone in having broad interests allowed all of us Artsci students to learn from each other, expose ourselves to different fields, and connect on multiple levels. Through the shared experience of such a uniquely challenging program, I have formed bonds with brilliant, motivated, and loving individuals that are worth far more than anything else I could have expected from this program.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After graduating from Artsci, I entered the Clinical Psychology PhD program at McGill University in fall 2020. My dissertation research focuses on daily interactions between adolescent siblings and friends, and their effect on mood. Luckily, my research is supervised by an Artsci alumna from the Class of 2000! I have also completed clinical practica working with child, adolescent, and adult populations in the Montreal community. The adaptability, inquisitive mindset, critical thinking skills, and versatility fostered at McMaster have been advantageous in both my research and psychotherapy practice. I often think back to many of my Artsci lectures and readings, which often delve deeper into the core of the human experience than any psychology textbook or article could.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Explore and get involved in everything that you’re curious about, even if it isn’t something you would typically do! My favourite memories came through participating in extracurriculars (plug for Artsci hockey), clubs, SASSex, courses outside my comfort zone, and going on exchange. Artsci is full of opportunities that you would not get elsewhere, so take advantage! Keep an exploratory attitude, be open to experience, and try not to worry about other students’ opinions on what you think you might enjoy. Relish the time you have in this very special program. It will be over before you know.

What Artsci means to John

What Arts & Science means to me:
No word describes my Arts & Science experience as succinctly as “community.” I feel unbelievably fortunate to have been in Artsci when I did, to have had the professors and staff I did, and to have met the peers I did. It provided a stimulating and inviting environment for me to explore my identity and my annoyingly broad interests. Not being alone in having broad interests allowed all of us Artsci students to learn from each other, expose ourselves to different fields, and connect on multiple levels. Through the shared experience of such a uniquely challenging program, I have formed bonds with brilliant, motivated, and loving individuals that are worth far more than anything else I could have expected from this program.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After graduating from Artsci, I entered the Clinical Psychology PhD program at McGill University in fall 2020. My dissertation research focuses on daily interactions between adolescent siblings and friends, and their effect on mood. Luckily, my research is supervised by an Artsci alumna from the Class of 2000! I have also completed clinical practica working with child, adolescent, and adult populations in the Montreal community. The adaptability, inquisitive mindset, critical thinking skills, and versatility fostered at McMaster have been advantageous in both my research and psychotherapy practice. I often think back to many of my Artsci lectures and readings, which often delve deeper into the core of the human experience than any psychology textbook or article could.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Explore and get involved in everything that you’re curious about, even if it isn’t something you would typically do! My favourite memories came through participating in extracurriculars (plug for Artsci hockey), clubs, SASSex, courses outside my comfort zone, and going on exchange. Artsci is full of opportunities that you would not get elsewhere, so take advantage! Keep an exploratory attitude, be open to experience, and try not to worry about other students’ opinions on what you think you might enjoy. Relish the time you have in this very special program. It will be over before you know.

What Arts & Science means to me:
Opportunities. Exploration. A way of thinking. Arts & Science provided me with a toolkit to think through complex questions and approach new challenges. The lessons I learned inside and outside the classroom during my time in the Artsci Program continue to guide the choices I make and the way I think.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I started law school right after graduating from Arts & Science. That introduced me to a set of values and way of thinking and opened up new doors for me. I quickly realized that I am interested in public law and pursued government jobs. I am currently finishing my last year at law school and will be articling at the Ministry of the Attorney General where I hope to begin my career once I am called to the Bar.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Make the most out of the time you have in Artsci. Engage with your classes, connect with your professors, ask questions because it is truly a privilege, and, as cliche as it sounds, it really does fly by. Recognize the special bubble you are in and be aware that whatever comes next likely won’t look like this – and that may take some adjustment but that’s okay! Explore different pathways. Don’t be afraid to reach out to alumni. There’s probably someone out there that is walking (or walked) a similar path. Some of the best support I got post-Artsci was from alumni.

What Arts & Science means to me:
Opportunities. Exploration. A way of thinking. Arts & Science provided me with a toolkit to think through complex questions and approach new challenges. The lessons I learned inside and outside the classroom during my time in the Artsci Program continue to guide the choices I make and the way I think.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I started law school right after graduating from Arts & Science. That introduced me to a set of values and way of thinking and opened up new doors for me. I quickly realized that I am interested in public law and pursued government jobs. I am currently finishing my last year at law school and will be articling at the Ministry of the Attorney General where I hope to begin my career once I am called to the Bar.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Make the most out of the time you have in Artsci. Engage with your classes, connect with your professors, ask questions because it is truly a privilege, and, as cliche as it sounds, it really does fly by. Recognize the special bubble you are in and be aware that whatever comes next likely won’t look like this – and that may take some adjustment but that’s okay! Explore different pathways. Don’t be afraid to reach out to alumni. There’s probably someone out there that is walking (or walked) a similar path. Some of the best support I got post-Artsci was from alumni.

What Arts & Science means to me:
As a high school student, I was continually drawn to learning. I found myself fascinated by a wide variety of academic disciplines ranging from biology to law. When I was researching undergraduate programs, I felt immediately connected to McMaster’s Arts & Science Program, as it felt like the perfect place for me to continue discovering my own passions and interests. My Artsci experience was exactly what I had envisioned it to be and more. After four years, the Arts & Science program provided me a foundation to continue my journey as a life-long learner. Beyond its academic value, Artsci also allowed me to be part of an incredible community, fostering meaningful friendships and various outlets for artistic expression. In starting the Arts & Science Musical, which I am proud to know is still continuing today, I am now able to look back at incredible memories of art and creativity!

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
Upon graduating from the Arts & Science program, I applied to the JD program at Osgoode Hall Law School. In making this decision, I thought back to all my favourite Arts & Science classes along with the skills I had started to develop, such as problem solving, teamwork, and critical thinking. In my first year at Osgoode, I decided to apply to the joint JD/MBA program. After completing a combination in business while at McMaster, I was eager to continue developing my business acumen. Now, I am in my third year of the joint program, pursuing a career in business law and beginning that journey at a corporate law firm in the summer of 2022.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
I would encourage all current and future students to take advantage of all the unique offerings that the Arts & Science Program has on display–in both academic and non-academic contexts. A program unlike any other, Arts & Science truly allows you to further identify your skills and competencies. I recommend that you take a vast array of classes that interest you and to get involved in the community through SASS, the Artsci Musical, or another avenue!

What Arts & Science means to me:
As a high school student, I was continually drawn to learning. I found myself fascinated by a wide variety of academic disciplines ranging from biology to law. When I was researching undergraduate programs, I felt immediately connected to McMaster’s Arts & Science Program, as it felt like the perfect place for me to continue discovering my own passions and interests. My Artsci experience was exactly what I had envisioned it to be and more. After four years, the Arts & Science program provided me a foundation to continue my journey as a life-long learner. Beyond its academic value, Artsci also allowed me to be part of an incredible community, fostering meaningful friendships and various outlets for artistic expression. In starting the Arts & Science Musical, which I am proud to know is still continuing today, I am now able to look back at incredible memories of art and creativity!

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
Upon graduating from the Arts & Science program, I applied to the JD program at Osgoode Hall Law School. In making this decision, I thought back to all my favourite Arts & Science classes along with the skills I had started to develop, such as problem solving, teamwork, and critical thinking. In my first year at Osgoode, I decided to apply to the joint JD/MBA program. After completing a combination in business while at McMaster, I was eager to continue developing my business acumen. Now, I am in my third year of the joint program, pursuing a career in business law and beginning that journey at a corporate law firm in the summer of 2022.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
I would encourage all current and future students to take advantage of all the unique offerings that the Arts & Science Program has on display–in both academic and non-academic contexts. A program unlike any other, Arts & Science truly allows you to further identify your skills and competencies. I recommend that you take a vast array of classes that interest you and to get involved in the community through SASS, the Artsci Musical, or another avenue!

What Artsci means to Arakel

Arts & Science gave me the opportunity to explore diverse interests. In the process, I discovered a particular field of study that drew me most, and which was continually supported and questioned by the different ways of thinking and knowing that I learned along the way. These different skills, acquired inside and outside the classroom, and in conversation with professors and friends, have shaped who I am in ways I could hardly have imagined possible when I began this journey.

His message to current and future Arts and Science students:

The journey will be difficult. The new thoughts you encounter will continually shake the foundations upon which you built your world, all while you enter important years of development and growth. Do not be afraid, but embrace the opportunity to think in novel ways. In the process, you will find joy, awe, and understanding. Your friends and professors, who are sharing, or have shared similar experiences, will help you along the way.

What Artsci means to Arakel

Arts & Science gave me the opportunity to explore diverse interests. In the process, I discovered a particular field of study that drew me most, and which was continually supported and questioned by the different ways of thinking and knowing that I learned along the way. These different skills, acquired inside and outside the classroom, and in conversation with professors and friends, have shaped who I am in ways I could hardly have imagined possible when I began this journey.

His message to current and future Arts and Science students:

The journey will be difficult. The new thoughts you encounter will continually shake the foundations upon which you built your world, all while you enter important years of development and growth. Do not be afraid, but embrace the opportunity to think in novel ways. In the process, you will find joy, awe, and understanding. Your friends and professors, who are sharing, or have shared similar experiences, will help you along the way.

What Artsci means to Griffin

What Arts & Science means to me:
Artsci was the platform that got my mind thinking in a new way. It is a community of brilliant minds who helped teach me to question, challenge, and explore everything.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
Since leaving Artsci, I wanted to continue my interest in changing Canada’s relationship to the Indigenous people who inhabited Canada long before settlers. I was lucky enough to land in a position with the former federal Minister of Indigenous Services, Jane Philpott and now work with Minister Marc Miller. The position as Regional Advisor is fast-paced but entirely built around relationships, so I can meet amazing Indigenous leaders, advocate for important policy changes, and understand the nuances and challenges of reconciliation from a unique position.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Give this program everything you can. This will look different to every person, and that is what makes Artsci amazing. You will feel lost, and unsure of where to go, but the skills you develop will serve you everyday.

What Artsci means to Griffin

What Arts & Science means to me:
Artsci was the platform that got my mind thinking in a new way. It is a community of brilliant minds who helped teach me to question, challenge, and explore everything.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
Since leaving Artsci, I wanted to continue my interest in changing Canada’s relationship to the Indigenous people who inhabited Canada long before settlers. I was lucky enough to land in a position with the former federal Minister of Indigenous Services, Jane Philpott and now work with Minister Marc Miller. The position as Regional Advisor is fast-paced but entirely built around relationships, so I can meet amazing Indigenous leaders, advocate for important policy changes, and understand the nuances and challenges of reconciliation from a unique position.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Give this program everything you can. This will look different to every person, and that is what makes Artsci amazing. You will feel lost, and unsure of where to go, but the skills you develop will serve you everyday.

What Arts & Science means to me:
Artsci, for me, provided an environment where I was free to explore. Outside of my Artsci courses, I took courses in the sciences, history, philosophy, and art, and still ended up focusing my interests on sustainability. The freedom to wander between disciplines, topics, and projects allowed me to trace the thread of my interest much better than if I had jumped right into a degree in, say, Environmental Science. That freedom really allows you to parse out your own sources of meaning, where otherwise you are going on the basis of hunches.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I took a year off after school to travel and work (highly recommend), and then did a Masters degree in Environment and Sustainability (MES). I am currently working as a Sustainability Consultant at a firm called Anthesis Group.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Don’t Panic. The same freedom that I found liberating, some (including myself at times) find paralyzing. It’s okay to wander, though, and you’re under very little pressure to make concrete choices. Just find what interests you and see where it takes you!

What Arts & Science means to me:
Artsci, for me, provided an environment where I was free to explore. Outside of my Artsci courses, I took courses in the sciences, history, philosophy, and art, and still ended up focusing my interests on sustainability. The freedom to wander between disciplines, topics, and projects allowed me to trace the thread of my interest much better than if I had jumped right into a degree in, say, Environmental Science. That freedom really allows you to parse out your own sources of meaning, where otherwise you are going on the basis of hunches.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I took a year off after school to travel and work (highly recommend), and then did a Masters degree in Environment and Sustainability (MES). I am currently working as a Sustainability Consultant at a firm called Anthesis Group.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Don’t Panic. The same freedom that I found liberating, some (including myself at times) find paralyzing. It’s okay to wander, though, and you’re under very little pressure to make concrete choices. Just find what interests you and see where it takes you!

What Artsci means to Sunanna

Arts & Science made my undergraduate experience unforgettable. While it took me a while to figure out that I wanted to pursue Accounting, the soft skills, especially the ability to communicate, that I was able to develop in Artsci will remain with me for life. It’s a common belief that accountants sit at desks and interact solely with Microsoft Excel all day, but I can’t convey how important the value of team-building exercises, Inquiry, and creative expression is in many aspects of my work. Artsci allowed me to understand myself, grow into myself, and most importantly, be myself. And that kind of education, well… it’s priceless.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

It’s okay not to have direction. In fact, I would like to echo something Dr. Wilson explained during our Lit class on Dante’s Inferno: sometimes you have to get lost to find yourself. So, get lost in the humanities. Get lost in the sciences. Try everything. You will form the greatest relationships in Artsci, with your classmates and your professors. Think practically, but channel your creativity and cherish Artsci because it is an invaluable experience. You will find yourself, perhaps in Graduate school or at work, remembering phrases from your Lit class, writing Inquiry-style reports, analyzing scientific data. Everything you do in Artsci will come back in some shape or form in the future, and you’ll look back on those memories with nothing but fondness and gratitude.

What Artsci means to Sunanna

Arts & Science made my undergraduate experience unforgettable. While it took me a while to figure out that I wanted to pursue Accounting, the soft skills, especially the ability to communicate, that I was able to develop in Artsci will remain with me for life. It’s a common belief that accountants sit at desks and interact solely with Microsoft Excel all day, but I can’t convey how important the value of team-building exercises, Inquiry, and creative expression is in many aspects of my work. Artsci allowed me to understand myself, grow into myself, and most importantly, be myself. And that kind of education, well… it’s priceless.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

It’s okay not to have direction. In fact, I would like to echo something Dr. Wilson explained during our Lit class on Dante’s Inferno: sometimes you have to get lost to find yourself. So, get lost in the humanities. Get lost in the sciences. Try everything. You will form the greatest relationships in Artsci, with your classmates and your professors. Think practically, but channel your creativity and cherish Artsci because it is an invaluable experience. You will find yourself, perhaps in Graduate school or at work, remembering phrases from your Lit class, writing Inquiry-style reports, analyzing scientific data. Everything you do in Artsci will come back in some shape or form in the future, and you’ll look back on those memories with nothing but fondness and gratitude.

What Artsci means to Matthew

Coming to Artsci was, without question, the best decision I’ve ever made. For five years, I was surrounded by the smartest, most interesting people I’ve ever met. I took a huge variety of courses from professors whom I now consider friends. And I learned enough to hold a semi-competent conversation with students from any discipline. I chose the Arts & Science Program so I could study math and physics without abandoning history and philosophy, and things seem to have worked out, since I’m now en route to a PhD in history of science. Along the way, I TA’d three courses, spent a semester in Europe, started a radio show, gave the 2017 Artsci Winter Lecture, and made an unbeatable group of friends. In my final year, I bewilderedly received the Rhodes Scholarship to study at Oxford University. There’s no way that could have happened without Arts & Science. It’s pretty darn special.

His message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Take advantage of the freedom Artsci gives you to learn pretty much anything. If you become spontaneously fascinated by something outside of class—early sound recording technology, Kendrick Lamar, web design, the Afghanistan-Pakistan border—you can always find a way to incorporate it into your coursework, an independent study, or a thesis. Dive deep into your obsessions, and let Artsci help you scratch your intellectual itches!

What Artsci means to Matthew

Coming to Artsci was, without question, the best decision I’ve ever made. For five years, I was surrounded by the smartest, most interesting people I’ve ever met. I took a huge variety of courses from professors whom I now consider friends. And I learned enough to hold a semi-competent conversation with students from any discipline. I chose the Arts & Science Program so I could study math and physics without abandoning history and philosophy, and things seem to have worked out, since I’m now en route to a PhD in history of science. Along the way, I TA’d three courses, spent a semester in Europe, started a radio show, gave the 2017 Artsci Winter Lecture, and made an unbeatable group of friends. In my final year, I bewilderedly received the Rhodes Scholarship to study at Oxford University. There’s no way that could have happened without Arts & Science. It’s pretty darn special.

His message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Take advantage of the freedom Artsci gives you to learn pretty much anything. If you become spontaneously fascinated by something outside of class—early sound recording technology, Kendrick Lamar, web design, the Afghanistan-Pakistan border—you can always find a way to incorporate it into your coursework, an independent study, or a thesis. Dive deep into your obsessions, and let Artsci help you scratch your intellectual itches!

What Artsci means to Gali

The Arts & Science program gave me a solid foundation on which I continue to try to make meaning of this crazy thing we call life. It has led me to the interdisciplinary field of bioethics, in which I find myself constantly drawing upon certain lectures, assignments, and conversations shared with my Artsci peers. I am forever grateful for the four years I had to explore, to question, to learn to embrace uncertainty, and to laugh along with our exceptionally talented and caring community.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

The opportunities in Artsci are endless. The doors, which are open to you, include teaching assistant positions, research opportunities, conference presentations, intramural sports teams, leadership positions on executive teams, canoe trips, and the chance to break pizza eating records on one day each year (Artsci’s Pizza Plunge event). Put yourself out there and try things!

What Artsci means to Gali

The Arts & Science program gave me a solid foundation on which I continue to try to make meaning of this crazy thing we call life. It has led me to the interdisciplinary field of bioethics, in which I find myself constantly drawing upon certain lectures, assignments, and conversations shared with my Artsci peers. I am forever grateful for the four years I had to explore, to question, to learn to embrace uncertainty, and to laugh along with our exceptionally talented and caring community.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

The opportunities in Artsci are endless. The doors, which are open to you, include teaching assistant positions, research opportunities, conference presentations, intramural sports teams, leadership positions on executive teams, canoe trips, and the chance to break pizza eating records on one day each year (Artsci’s Pizza Plunge event). Put yourself out there and try things!

What Artsci means to Saad

The Arts & Science Program at McMaster surrounded me with professors and staff who made my education truly student-centred. Whether it was a certain topic or contemplation of a certain career, I was able to gain extensive knowledge and tailor my undergraduate experience to explore my interests. By providing this exposure, and coupling it with a focus on communication and critical thinking skills, the program has established a strong foundation for my postgraduate education as an MD/PhD.

 His message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Approach your time in the program with open-mindedness and a desire not only to learn about the world and yourself, but to strive for better. If you become passionate about an issue or topic, pursue it. You and your peers will go through this exciting process together. They will often be your inspiration to attempt incredible things and the support to achieve them.

More information about Saad and his research can be found in the McMaster Daily News:
Eleven at McMaster Named Vanier Scholars, Banting Fellows
Mac Grad’s $1.8-Million Bequest includes his Library, his Scholarship Fund- and his House
How do Agricultural, Food Processing Practices Affect Obesity? McMaster Team Awarded $2M to Find Out

What Artsci means to Saad

The Arts & Science Program at McMaster surrounded me with professors and staff who made my education truly student-centred. Whether it was a certain topic or contemplation of a certain career, I was able to gain extensive knowledge and tailor my undergraduate experience to explore my interests. By providing this exposure, and coupling it with a focus on communication and critical thinking skills, the program has established a strong foundation for my postgraduate education as an MD/PhD.

 His message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Approach your time in the program with open-mindedness and a desire not only to learn about the world and yourself, but to strive for better. If you become passionate about an issue or topic, pursue it. You and your peers will go through this exciting process together. They will often be your inspiration to attempt incredible things and the support to achieve them.

More information about Saad and his research can be found in the McMaster Daily News:
Eleven at McMaster Named Vanier Scholars, Banting Fellows
Mac Grad’s $1.8-Million Bequest includes his Library, his Scholarship Fund- and his House
How do Agricultural, Food Processing Practices Affect Obesity? McMaster Team Awarded $2M to Find Out

What Artsci means to Stephen

What Arts & Science means to me:
Artsci was the first community in which I really felt I belonged. Over the course of four challenging, inspiring, fun, and surprising years, I developed a strong identity, purpose, and social circle that I maintain to this day. I miss it!

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I spent a couple of years (literally) wandering around, passing through Panama, Rwanda, Cambodia, and a few other out-of-the-way places. I picked up a Master’s degree and multiple tropical diseases. Eventually I stumbled upon a field called effective altruism. Now I work in London, England for a charity called Founders Pledge, where I help wealthy entrepreneurs give their money to the most effective charities possible.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Have fun. Make friends with your professors. When you write, don’t use too many adjectives. Oh, and visit 80000hours.org – it’s a career advice website that changed my life, and is perfect for Artscis who still aren’t quite sure what the heck they want to do.

What Artsci means to Stephen

What Arts & Science means to me:
Artsci was the first community in which I really felt I belonged. Over the course of four challenging, inspiring, fun, and surprising years, I developed a strong identity, purpose, and social circle that I maintain to this day. I miss it!

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I spent a couple of years (literally) wandering around, passing through Panama, Rwanda, Cambodia, and a few other out-of-the-way places. I picked up a Master’s degree and multiple tropical diseases. Eventually I stumbled upon a field called effective altruism. Now I work in London, England for a charity called Founders Pledge, where I help wealthy entrepreneurs give their money to the most effective charities possible.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Have fun. Make friends with your professors. When you write, don’t use too many adjectives. Oh, and visit 80000hours.org – it’s a career advice website that changed my life, and is perfect for Artscis who still aren’t quite sure what the heck they want to do.

What Arts & Science means to me:
Being able to see the ‘other side’ of a specific field, whether that’s looking at how we can communicate medical information in a way that can increase viewership or looking at art with a more technical mind. To me, Arts & Science is all about using creativity, logic, and science in order to explore topics and get a message across.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I completed my Master’s in Chemical Biology, and spent the first half of my degree considering a future in academia, but really felt like I wasn’t using my creative side or my communication skills to the fullest extent. Once I realized that I could actually do both in the health care digital marketing field, I was all in.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Don’t be afraid to look for jobs that all of your skills/interests fit into. Just because you’re following a path that aligns more with art or science doesn’t mean you can’t have both!

What Arts & Science means to me:
Being able to see the ‘other side’ of a specific field, whether that’s looking at how we can communicate medical information in a way that can increase viewership or looking at art with a more technical mind. To me, Arts & Science is all about using creativity, logic, and science in order to explore topics and get a message across.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I completed my Master’s in Chemical Biology, and spent the first half of my degree considering a future in academia, but really felt like I wasn’t using my creative side or my communication skills to the fullest extent. Once I realized that I could actually do both in the health care digital marketing field, I was all in.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Don’t be afraid to look for jobs that all of your skills/interests fit into. Just because you’re following a path that aligns more with art or science doesn’t mean you can’t have both!

The community in the Arts & Science Program is unlike any other. The support of the professors, staff, and students make it the ideal atmosphere in which to explore new and different academic disciplines, to develop critical thinking skills, and to embark on the journey of becoming a lifelong learner.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Enjoy the time you have in Artsci. Take advantage of the opportunity to learn from the fantastic faculty and students in the program, appreciate the freedom you’re given to engage in interdisciplinary learning, and have fun! Don’t worry if you’re not entirely sure where you’re headed after graduation – things will work out. The transferable skill set you’ll gain from the program will be an asset in whichever path you choose to follow.

The community in the Arts & Science Program is unlike any other. The support of the professors, staff, and students make it the ideal atmosphere in which to explore new and different academic disciplines, to develop critical thinking skills, and to embark on the journey of becoming a lifelong learner.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Enjoy the time you have in Artsci. Take advantage of the opportunity to learn from the fantastic faculty and students in the program, appreciate the freedom you’re given to engage in interdisciplinary learning, and have fun! Don’t worry if you’re not entirely sure where you’re headed after graduation – things will work out. The transferable skill set you’ll gain from the program will be an asset in whichever path you choose to follow.

What Artsci means to Ben

For me, the Arts & Science program was like an all-you-can-eat buffet. I was able to sample a little bit of everything on offer, figure out my favourite, then go back and heap my plate with what I loved the most. As it turned out, I was most passionate about something that wasn’t strictly part of the Artsci degree – graphic design – but was allowed to pursue that interest by doing a “combined honours” program in Arts & Science and Multimedia. It was the best of many worlds.

After graduation, I did a short design internship in Geneva, Switzerland, and then was able to get a job with the Globe and Mail. I partly attribute my success in getting the job to the fact that I had a wide-ranging, liberal arts and science degree to complement my design skills. Artsci is a flexible enough program that I was able to sculpt my dream degree.

His message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Don’t worry so much about marks. There can be a feeling of elitism and competitiveness in the university environment, but you’ll have more success in life if you focus on making friends and working with other like-minded individuals, and don’t stress so much about academic perfection. In the time since I graduated, I haven’t been asked a single question about my GPA. Use this time to figure out what you love to do, and to have a great time with all the keen and talented people in this program.

What Artsci means to Ben

For me, the Arts & Science program was like an all-you-can-eat buffet. I was able to sample a little bit of everything on offer, figure out my favourite, then go back and heap my plate with what I loved the most. As it turned out, I was most passionate about something that wasn’t strictly part of the Artsci degree – graphic design – but was allowed to pursue that interest by doing a “combined honours” program in Arts & Science and Multimedia. It was the best of many worlds.

After graduation, I did a short design internship in Geneva, Switzerland, and then was able to get a job with the Globe and Mail. I partly attribute my success in getting the job to the fact that I had a wide-ranging, liberal arts and science degree to complement my design skills. Artsci is a flexible enough program that I was able to sculpt my dream degree.

His message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Don’t worry so much about marks. There can be a feeling of elitism and competitiveness in the university environment, but you’ll have more success in life if you focus on making friends and working with other like-minded individuals, and don’t stress so much about academic perfection. In the time since I graduated, I haven’t been asked a single question about my GPA. Use this time to figure out what you love to do, and to have a great time with all the keen and talented people in this program.

What Artsci means to Katie

What Arts & Science means to me:
Looking for new learning opportunities in every corner, and never being afraid to ask questions!

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
Artsci was what helped me figure out that I wanted to be a lawyer. Once I discovered that, I went to UofT for a combined law and global affairs degree (I still craved that interdisciplinary nature of the Artsci program even after, hence my decision to do a combined degree). Then I articled, and made the decision to start up my own practice. I think that Artsci is part of what helped to give me the courage to find my own path and not always do what was “expected.”

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Don’t be afraid of not knowing everything. No one does, and a person who is willing to ask questions and work at finding an answer or solution is far more impressive than someone who avoids what they don’t know or acts as though they already have all the answers. Embrace curiosity and creativity, and find answers on your terms and in your own way.

What Artsci means to Katie

What Arts & Science means to me:
Looking for new learning opportunities in every corner, and never being afraid to ask questions!

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
Artsci was what helped me figure out that I wanted to be a lawyer. Once I discovered that, I went to UofT for a combined law and global affairs degree (I still craved that interdisciplinary nature of the Artsci program even after, hence my decision to do a combined degree). Then I articled, and made the decision to start up my own practice. I think that Artsci is part of what helped to give me the courage to find my own path and not always do what was “expected.”

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Don’t be afraid of not knowing everything. No one does, and a person who is willing to ask questions and work at finding an answer or solution is far more impressive than someone who avoids what they don’t know or acts as though they already have all the answers. Embrace curiosity and creativity, and find answers on your terms and in your own way.

What Artsci means to Aaron

What Arts & Science means to me:
I originally saw Artsci as an opportunity to keep studying everything. This afforded me a lot of stimulation and study but also, eventually, a lot of undue stress. More importantly, Artsci was, in retrospect, an unusually welcoming and intellectually-oriented community. Those values have remained with me to this day, and opened many doors in my personal and professional life.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I had no idea what to do when I graduated and generally floundered. I ended up doing a M.A. in Economics and got interested in applied statistics and working with data. On a whim I applied for an internship and ended up working in public policy for four years (at both of Canada’s best-known think tanks). Later, wanting to challenge myself on a more technical level, I plotted a shift to the tech industry and Data Science. These days I do quite a lot of what could be called software engineering, and enjoy it immensely.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
I know many Artsci students are anxious about what comes after, so let me say plainly: you are all bright and motivated people, and with a little planning you could basically do whatever you want career-wise. Yet you are likely to discover that luck and timing play an outsized role in what you learn, where you work, and whom you meet. Artsci is unlikely to be the last place you are challenged, and it is also unlikely to yield the fully-formed adult you will become. It is only the beginning of the rest of your life. (That’s not very actionable, I realize, but life advice rarely is.)

What Artsci means to Aaron

What Arts & Science means to me:
I originally saw Artsci as an opportunity to keep studying everything. This afforded me a lot of stimulation and study but also, eventually, a lot of undue stress. More importantly, Artsci was, in retrospect, an unusually welcoming and intellectually-oriented community. Those values have remained with me to this day, and opened many doors in my personal and professional life.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I had no idea what to do when I graduated and generally floundered. I ended up doing a M.A. in Economics and got interested in applied statistics and working with data. On a whim I applied for an internship and ended up working in public policy for four years (at both of Canada’s best-known think tanks). Later, wanting to challenge myself on a more technical level, I plotted a shift to the tech industry and Data Science. These days I do quite a lot of what could be called software engineering, and enjoy it immensely.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
I know many Artsci students are anxious about what comes after, so let me say plainly: you are all bright and motivated people, and with a little planning you could basically do whatever you want career-wise. Yet you are likely to discover that luck and timing play an outsized role in what you learn, where you work, and whom you meet. Artsci is unlikely to be the last place you are challenged, and it is also unlikely to yield the fully-formed adult you will become. It is only the beginning of the rest of your life. (That’s not very actionable, I realize, but life advice rarely is.)

What Artsci means to Julia

I graduated from Arts & Science in 2013 with a focus on philosophy, and my relentless interest in bioethics has led me to pursue a Masters in Biotechnology and Ethics at the Pontifical John Paul II Institute in Washington, D.C. My first two years of Artsci were very difficult as I struggled to find my place both in the community and in the breadth of courses we took. It was only in my third year that I found my “niche” within philosophy and ethics, where I felt like I was no longer struggling to remain above water, but was actually “swimming” and enjoying it! This enabled me to better appreciate the variety and difficulty of the work from years I and II (Inquiry papers, Logic tests, Writing essays, Calculus, Physics, Economics, etc).  After the end of each year, I was amazed at the work we had accomplished and what we had learned, and the unique value of the program was reinforced. It has definitely shaped who I am. To summarize my Artsci experience: A challenge; A struggle; A triumphant emergence and discovery of who I am and what I love.

What Artsci means to Julia

I graduated from Arts & Science in 2013 with a focus on philosophy, and my relentless interest in bioethics has led me to pursue a Masters in Biotechnology and Ethics at the Pontifical John Paul II Institute in Washington, D.C. My first two years of Artsci were very difficult as I struggled to find my place both in the community and in the breadth of courses we took. It was only in my third year that I found my “niche” within philosophy and ethics, where I felt like I was no longer struggling to remain above water, but was actually “swimming” and enjoying it! This enabled me to better appreciate the variety and difficulty of the work from years I and II (Inquiry papers, Logic tests, Writing essays, Calculus, Physics, Economics, etc).  After the end of each year, I was amazed at the work we had accomplished and what we had learned, and the unique value of the program was reinforced. It has definitely shaped who I am. To summarize my Artsci experience: A challenge; A struggle; A triumphant emergence and discovery of who I am and what I love.

What Artsci means to Harrison

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science is a community of brilliant individuals, existing within an excellent university (McMaster), sitting in a most interesting city (Hamilton). I can think of no better place to pursue an education. However you choose to direct your studies, the support of your Arts & Science professors and peers makes the experience as rewarding as possible – and this is a community that stays with you for life. When I began working in New York, it was a remarkable moment when a senior attorney called me out of the blue to grab a coffee because he too was an Artsci (never mind that he graduated a decade before I did). All that said, of course (of course!), the real Arts & Science was the friends you made along the way.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After interning as a learning systems consultant at Metrix Group for just over a year, I attended law school at the University of Toronto. After law school, I began my career as an attorney in New York. I presently work as a corporate lawyer in the Toronto office of a large New York-based firm.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Don’t be afraid to learn for its own sake, and choose courses/assignments for this purpose. Success will generally come easier if you focus on work you enjoy, and you may find career paths you had not considered. If you fake it until you make it, you may find that where you’ve “made it” is not somewhere you want to be.

What Artsci means to Harrison

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science is a community of brilliant individuals, existing within an excellent university (McMaster), sitting in a most interesting city (Hamilton). I can think of no better place to pursue an education. However you choose to direct your studies, the support of your Arts & Science professors and peers makes the experience as rewarding as possible – and this is a community that stays with you for life. When I began working in New York, it was a remarkable moment when a senior attorney called me out of the blue to grab a coffee because he too was an Artsci (never mind that he graduated a decade before I did). All that said, of course (of course!), the real Arts & Science was the friends you made along the way.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After interning as a learning systems consultant at Metrix Group for just over a year, I attended law school at the University of Toronto. After law school, I began my career as an attorney in New York. I presently work as a corporate lawyer in the Toronto office of a large New York-based firm.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Don’t be afraid to learn for its own sake, and choose courses/assignments for this purpose. Success will generally come easier if you focus on work you enjoy, and you may find career paths you had not considered. If you fake it until you make it, you may find that where you’ve “made it” is not somewhere you want to be.

What Artsci means to Arianne

What Arts & Science means to me:
The interdisciplinary nature of Arts & Science allowed me to explore a wide variety of unrelated fields and, in turn, to connect and merge ideas and look at learning more holistically. It also gave me exposure to many different topic areas. Much of what I learned in the program has stayed with me and inspired me to connect seemingly unrelated ideas to many things I do in life.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After Arts & Science, I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do. I was good at math so I thought a natural career path would be finance. I completed my Master in Finance at Princeton University and after a number of job offers to work in trading in NYC, I quickly realized Wall Street trading wasn’t for me. I did a 180 and came back to Toronto to start an online tutoring business. From there, I joined a pre-seed accelerator program at The University of Toronto called the Creative Destruction Lab, as a Venture Manager for Artificial Intelligence startups. There, I helped other startups and entrepreneurs grow their businesses. After working in this program, I joined one of the ventures I had worked closely with as Director of Finance, coming back to my finance roots in the tech field. In late 2017, I joined another tech venture, Tendermint Inc. as their VP of Finance; the team was working on the Cosmos Network project, a prominent blockchain project. I have been in the blockchain space specifically focused on Cosmos for 2.5 years. I am currently working as Chief Operating Officer for our new venture, Informal Systems, where we conduct fundamental research and development into the design, implementation, and formal verification of distributed systems and protocols related to the Cosmos Network. At Informal, I work at the intersection of people, business, and computers, and oversee all business aspects of our work.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Be open to exploration! Don’t be too set on following the “perfect path,” because life always throws a fork in the road and you have to adapt to new plans. Consider adaptation and going with the flow a gift.

What Artsci means to Arianne

What Arts & Science means to me:
The interdisciplinary nature of Arts & Science allowed me to explore a wide variety of unrelated fields and, in turn, to connect and merge ideas and look at learning more holistically. It also gave me exposure to many different topic areas. Much of what I learned in the program has stayed with me and inspired me to connect seemingly unrelated ideas to many things I do in life.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After Arts & Science, I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do. I was good at math so I thought a natural career path would be finance. I completed my Master in Finance at Princeton University and after a number of job offers to work in trading in NYC, I quickly realized Wall Street trading wasn’t for me. I did a 180 and came back to Toronto to start an online tutoring business. From there, I joined a pre-seed accelerator program at The University of Toronto called the Creative Destruction Lab, as a Venture Manager for Artificial Intelligence startups. There, I helped other startups and entrepreneurs grow their businesses. After working in this program, I joined one of the ventures I had worked closely with as Director of Finance, coming back to my finance roots in the tech field. In late 2017, I joined another tech venture, Tendermint Inc. as their VP of Finance; the team was working on the Cosmos Network project, a prominent blockchain project. I have been in the blockchain space specifically focused on Cosmos for 2.5 years. I am currently working as Chief Operating Officer for our new venture, Informal Systems, where we conduct fundamental research and development into the design, implementation, and formal verification of distributed systems and protocols related to the Cosmos Network. At Informal, I work at the intersection of people, business, and computers, and oversee all business aspects of our work.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Be open to exploration! Don’t be too set on following the “perfect path,” because life always throws a fork in the road and you have to adapt to new plans. Consider adaptation and going with the flow a gift.

What Artsci means to Sam

What Arts & Science means to me:
It wasn’t job training. It was human-being training. The program encouraged me to be a curious learner, an engaged citizen, and an open-minded person. The most enduring lesson came at the start of a first-year inquiry course: if you think you know the answer, you haven’t asked enough questions. The courses prepared me to challenge the things I thought I knew, even when it was uncomfortable. All that is (or should be) a prerequisite to a responsible and satisfying life and career.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I stayed on campus for a year after graduation to be editor-in-chief of The Silhouette, the campus newspaper. It was really the Sil that turned me onto my career in journalism. After I left Mac, I did a Master of Journalism degree at Ryerson in Toronto, then I made stops at the Toronto Star and The Canadian Press before landing at CBC Radio as a producer. I got opportunities there to make radio that sounded like the well-produced podcasts I loved. I’m now living in London, UK, where I’m producing current-affairs radio shows for the BBC World Service.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Aim to emerge from the program with the tools and confidence to believe you can pursue anything that interests you. Don’t be intimidated by your classmates or professors. Instead, appreciate the opportunity to run with fast horses. Pursue your passions, wherever they lead. Savour the time to engage in big ideas, for their own sake, because those chances are hard to come by after you leave.

What Artsci means to Sam

What Arts & Science means to me:
It wasn’t job training. It was human-being training. The program encouraged me to be a curious learner, an engaged citizen, and an open-minded person. The most enduring lesson came at the start of a first-year inquiry course: if you think you know the answer, you haven’t asked enough questions. The courses prepared me to challenge the things I thought I knew, even when it was uncomfortable. All that is (or should be) a prerequisite to a responsible and satisfying life and career.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I stayed on campus for a year after graduation to be editor-in-chief of The Silhouette, the campus newspaper. It was really the Sil that turned me onto my career in journalism. After I left Mac, I did a Master of Journalism degree at Ryerson in Toronto, then I made stops at the Toronto Star and The Canadian Press before landing at CBC Radio as a producer. I got opportunities there to make radio that sounded like the well-produced podcasts I loved. I’m now living in London, UK, where I’m producing current-affairs radio shows for the BBC World Service.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Aim to emerge from the program with the tools and confidence to believe you can pursue anything that interests you. Don’t be intimidated by your classmates or professors. Instead, appreciate the opportunity to run with fast horses. Pursue your passions, wherever they lead. Savour the time to engage in big ideas, for their own sake, because those chances are hard to come by after you leave.

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science will remain the best education I have ever received. In a rapidly shape-shifting world, critical thinking and the ability to delineate truth/reality from alternatives are necessary. Artsci teaches you this skillset quantitatively and qualitatively.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I wanted a career in international health policy initially after Artsci and did a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology from Columbia University, NYC. I lived in Harlem for 2 years and had the opportunity to do consulting work at GAVI, The Vaccine Alliance in Geneva, and The Earth Institute, NYC but quickly realized that the human equation was missing in my experiences. I pivoted and applied to medicine and completed my medical school and Internal Medicine specialty training at McMaster. I just completed my sub-specialty training in Endocrinology and Metabolism at University of Toronto and I am now part of the Clinician-Scientist Training Program and undertaking a PhD in Epidemiology to fulfill my hybrid goals of being a clinician-epidemiologist.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Engage with your peers, think deeply about what you want out of life, and don’t hesitate to follow your own dreams. Most people who attend Artsci have the privileges of following a successful path in life. This is an incredible privilege in life and, I believe, it is equally important to actualize this privilege by exploring paths that truly make you happy.

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science will remain the best education I have ever received. In a rapidly shape-shifting world, critical thinking and the ability to delineate truth/reality from alternatives are necessary. Artsci teaches you this skillset quantitatively and qualitatively.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I wanted a career in international health policy initially after Artsci and did a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology from Columbia University, NYC. I lived in Harlem for 2 years and had the opportunity to do consulting work at GAVI, The Vaccine Alliance in Geneva, and The Earth Institute, NYC but quickly realized that the human equation was missing in my experiences. I pivoted and applied to medicine and completed my medical school and Internal Medicine specialty training at McMaster. I just completed my sub-specialty training in Endocrinology and Metabolism at University of Toronto and I am now part of the Clinician-Scientist Training Program and undertaking a PhD in Epidemiology to fulfill my hybrid goals of being a clinician-epidemiologist.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Engage with your peers, think deeply about what you want out of life, and don’t hesitate to follow your own dreams. Most people who attend Artsci have the privileges of following a successful path in life. This is an incredible privilege in life and, I believe, it is equally important to actualize this privilege by exploring paths that truly make you happy.

What Artsci means to Yang

The Arts & Science Program for me was a wonderful combination of formal class and informal community. The core curriculum was well-selected, yet flexible enough to allow me to explore many other subject areas. The professors were collegial and the community provided a nurturing environment where I developed as a person. The most valuable of Artsci’s teachings for me are clear and critical thinking and intellectual fearlessness.

What Artsci means to Yang

The Arts & Science Program for me was a wonderful combination of formal class and informal community. The core curriculum was well-selected, yet flexible enough to allow me to explore many other subject areas. The professors were collegial and the community provided a nurturing environment where I developed as a person. The most valuable of Artsci’s teachings for me are clear and critical thinking and intellectual fearlessness.

What Artsci means to Mary

For me, Artsci both refined a very practical skill-set and ushered me into the often impractical world of possibility. It took me years of meandering after graduation to decide on medical school, and now that I’m here, the uncertainty and wonder are ever-present. The Artsci community continues to be a source of inspiration to challenge the status quo and ask, what if?

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Don’t feel that you need to have your entire life and career figured out at the end of Artsci. Leave room for creativity and exploration; be open to combining your interests in novel ways. You are not a round peg trying to fit into a square hole, you are a dodecahedron making space for itself in the world. You will find your sweet spot between making a living and making a life—an ongoing process.

What Artsci means to Mary

For me, Artsci both refined a very practical skill-set and ushered me into the often impractical world of possibility. It took me years of meandering after graduation to decide on medical school, and now that I’m here, the uncertainty and wonder are ever-present. The Artsci community continues to be a source of inspiration to challenge the status quo and ask, what if?

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Don’t feel that you need to have your entire life and career figured out at the end of Artsci. Leave room for creativity and exploration; be open to combining your interests in novel ways. You are not a round peg trying to fit into a square hole, you are a dodecahedron making space for itself in the world. You will find your sweet spot between making a living and making a life—an ongoing process.

What Artsci means to Daniel

Daniel Penn has done a little bit of everything. Before coming to McMaster in 2007, he represented Canada as a competitive ski racer. Through his years at McMaster, in the Arts & Science Program, he was the president of the McMaster Cycling Club, founded Happening Hamilton (a blog about the city’s growing culture), and spent a year abroad while studying at the University of Copenhagen. Following his graduation from Mac in 2011, he co-founded a company called Shift Health. In his time as a high level ski racer, he had suffered a range of injuries, including a significant concussion that led him to fully understand the challenges that go along with patient-provider communication. He used this knowledge of the possible barriers to quality health care to help develop Shift Health, which aims to improve healthcare outcomes through patient reported data.

Outside of this company, Daniel is on the board for ITAC health, which connects health information technology companies of Canada, such as Shift Health, to the Canadian healthcare system. He also has several accomplishments outside of work, including a Hacking Health award, a position on Centennial College’s WIMTAC, recognition as a Forbes 30 under 30 and a TEDMED Scholar. With the aging population and technological advances in every aspect of life, this Mac grad is quickly becoming a leader in the field.

What Artsci means to Daniel

Daniel Penn has done a little bit of everything. Before coming to McMaster in 2007, he represented Canada as a competitive ski racer. Through his years at McMaster, in the Arts & Science Program, he was the president of the McMaster Cycling Club, founded Happening Hamilton (a blog about the city’s growing culture), and spent a year abroad while studying at the University of Copenhagen. Following his graduation from Mac in 2011, he co-founded a company called Shift Health. In his time as a high level ski racer, he had suffered a range of injuries, including a significant concussion that led him to fully understand the challenges that go along with patient-provider communication. He used this knowledge of the possible barriers to quality health care to help develop Shift Health, which aims to improve healthcare outcomes through patient reported data.

Outside of this company, Daniel is on the board for ITAC health, which connects health information technology companies of Canada, such as Shift Health, to the Canadian healthcare system. He also has several accomplishments outside of work, including a Hacking Health award, a position on Centennial College’s WIMTAC, recognition as a Forbes 30 under 30 and a TEDMED Scholar. With the aging population and technological advances in every aspect of life, this Mac grad is quickly becoming a leader in the field.

What Artsci means to Alessandra

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science, for me, has always been an opportunity to challenge my world views and grow by embracing the interconnectedness of everything we do. It was a place to explore ideas, lose my sense of self, and rebuild with a stronger foundation.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
My career is focused on community development and environmental sustainability, and I have worked with a blend of local civil society organizations/non-governmental organizations and international organizations. Following graduation from the Arts & Science Program, I opted to work for a year prior to commencing a master’s degree, eventually receiving a Master of Science in Environmental Policy from the University of Oxford (UK). Career-post-academia has involved working with the Social Planning and Research Council of Hamilton and, from 2015 onwards, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Rome (Italy), where I currently work as an international civil servant (Environment Officer, Climate Change) on investment projects in Asia & the Pacific region. Most of my efforts involve on-ground/in-country work in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Viet Nam, and the Philippines.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
It takes courage and strength of conviction to absorb everything that Artsci has to offer. I highly recommend embracing the experience with open arms. You will leave changed, for the better.

Delve into what piques your intrigue, and don’t be afraid to fail. Failure is necessary for growth, and you need not worry about being the top student. While many classmates certainly had higher GPAs than me, the biggest takeaway I had from Artsci came from the richness of connections and quality interactions—not from the numerous tomes we would read in our (not-so)-spare time. Trust me when I say you can flunk/drop a class/change your combined honours/reduce your course-load/extend your graduation date and you will survive—and perhaps even thrive. Everyone has their own approach to education; the important part is to take charge of yours. This is your path. Make the most of it, Artsci.

What Artsci means to Alessandra

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science, for me, has always been an opportunity to challenge my world views and grow by embracing the interconnectedness of everything we do. It was a place to explore ideas, lose my sense of self, and rebuild with a stronger foundation.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
My career is focused on community development and environmental sustainability, and I have worked with a blend of local civil society organizations/non-governmental organizations and international organizations. Following graduation from the Arts & Science Program, I opted to work for a year prior to commencing a master’s degree, eventually receiving a Master of Science in Environmental Policy from the University of Oxford (UK). Career-post-academia has involved working with the Social Planning and Research Council of Hamilton and, from 2015 onwards, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Rome (Italy), where I currently work as an international civil servant (Environment Officer, Climate Change) on investment projects in Asia & the Pacific region. Most of my efforts involve on-ground/in-country work in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Viet Nam, and the Philippines.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
It takes courage and strength of conviction to absorb everything that Artsci has to offer. I highly recommend embracing the experience with open arms. You will leave changed, for the better.

Delve into what piques your intrigue, and don’t be afraid to fail. Failure is necessary for growth, and you need not worry about being the top student. While many classmates certainly had higher GPAs than me, the biggest takeaway I had from Artsci came from the richness of connections and quality interactions—not from the numerous tomes we would read in our (not-so)-spare time. Trust me when I say you can flunk/drop a class/change your combined honours/reduce your course-load/extend your graduation date and you will survive—and perhaps even thrive. Everyone has their own approach to education; the important part is to take charge of yours. This is your path. Make the most of it, Artsci.

What Artsci means to Simone

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science is a liberating program because it is an enabling and enlightening community that fostered everything and anything. It was four year of inquiring minds, singing and dancing, laughs and cries, late-nights and early-mornings, friendships, and memories.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After I graduated from the program, I was accepted into the pharmacy program at the University of Toronto. Once I completed my degree, I worked as a pharmacy intern, and am currently working as a hospital pharmacist.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Enjoy the 4 years as an Artsci!

What Artsci means to Simone

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science is a liberating program because it is an enabling and enlightening community that fostered everything and anything. It was four year of inquiring minds, singing and dancing, laughs and cries, late-nights and early-mornings, friendships, and memories.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After I graduated from the program, I was accepted into the pharmacy program at the University of Toronto. Once I completed my degree, I worked as a pharmacy intern, and am currently working as a hospital pharmacist.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Enjoy the 4 years as an Artsci!

What Artsci means to Saurabh

What Arts & Science means to me:
High standards and exposure to diverse ideas.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
PhD Chemistry @ University of Victoria (2011-2015)
Postdoctoral fellowships at University of Bristol (2015-2017) and University of Toronto (2017-2018)
Assistant Professor at Dalhousie (2018-present)

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Good luck!

What Artsci means to Saurabh

What Arts & Science means to me:
High standards and exposure to diverse ideas.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
PhD Chemistry @ University of Victoria (2011-2015)
Postdoctoral fellowships at University of Bristol (2015-2017) and University of Toronto (2017-2018)
Assistant Professor at Dalhousie (2018-present)

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Good luck!

What Artsci means to Caitlin

Artsci made me realize the value of considering issues from all perspectives and the relationship these academic endeavours had with my personal experiences and goals. Being part of a supportive community made my education incredibly rich, and the ability to discuss everything from Plato to bicycles in Namibia to gender politics in social settings made my learning more relevant and thus more easy to return to post graduation. I haven’t been out for long, but ArtSci continues to be my compass. The interdisciplinary mindset has been an invaluable tool with which to approach any problem, and the relationships I have formed with my classmates and professors continue to be those I most depend on. I couldn’t imagine my life today without these things in my life!

What Artsci means to Caitlin

Artsci made me realize the value of considering issues from all perspectives and the relationship these academic endeavours had with my personal experiences and goals. Being part of a supportive community made my education incredibly rich, and the ability to discuss everything from Plato to bicycles in Namibia to gender politics in social settings made my learning more relevant and thus more easy to return to post graduation. I haven’t been out for long, but ArtSci continues to be my compass. The interdisciplinary mindset has been an invaluable tool with which to approach any problem, and the relationships I have formed with my classmates and professors continue to be those I most depend on. I couldn’t imagine my life today without these things in my life!

What Artsci means to Alysia

The Arts & Science Program changed my views on social, economic and community development, and our roles and responsibilities in those areas. We were taught to respond to broader social issues, and thoughtfully trained to use our analytical skills and unique personalities to find creative, inclusive solutions. The program also nurtures strong writers, which I’ve come to realize are needed in all fields of work. The small, tight-knit Artsci community – which includes not simply students but professors, staff, and all who’ve had remarkable encounters with the Artsci spirit – is a rare experience in any university setting. An Artsci friend and I had the opportunity to meet for coffee with another alumna from the class of ’93 whom I’d crossed by chance in a new city. These are those extraordinary happenstances which make for a truly exceptional program.

What Artsci means to Alysia

The Arts & Science Program changed my views on social, economic and community development, and our roles and responsibilities in those areas. We were taught to respond to broader social issues, and thoughtfully trained to use our analytical skills and unique personalities to find creative, inclusive solutions. The program also nurtures strong writers, which I’ve come to realize are needed in all fields of work. The small, tight-knit Artsci community – which includes not simply students but professors, staff, and all who’ve had remarkable encounters with the Artsci spirit – is a rare experience in any university setting. An Artsci friend and I had the opportunity to meet for coffee with another alumna from the class of ’93 whom I’d crossed by chance in a new city. These are those extraordinary happenstances which make for a truly exceptional program.

What Artsci means to Heather

What Arts & Science means to me:
For me, Arts & Science has meant a community that is committed to questioning and understanding the world, while also making time to enjoy it. To this day, I think of Artsci when I challenge an established view, deliver a presentation, and even when I walk past Courage My Love in Kensington Market (a favourite at Kaffeehaus, thanks Justina).

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After Artsci, I attended law school at the University of Toronto, where I developed a passion for corporate accountability. I now work for the Ontario Securities Commission in the Market Regulation branch, overseeing the exhanges and other marketplaces that operate in Canada.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Make the most of this time. Everything Artsci has to offer is a learning experience. You won’t remember spending an extra hour on that biology lab, but you will remember your discussion of local fauna at a Milk & Cookies.

What Artsci means to Heather

What Arts & Science means to me:
For me, Arts & Science has meant a community that is committed to questioning and understanding the world, while also making time to enjoy it. To this day, I think of Artsci when I challenge an established view, deliver a presentation, and even when I walk past Courage My Love in Kensington Market (a favourite at Kaffeehaus, thanks Justina).

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After Artsci, I attended law school at the University of Toronto, where I developed a passion for corporate accountability. I now work for the Ontario Securities Commission in the Market Regulation branch, overseeing the exhanges and other marketplaces that operate in Canada.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Make the most of this time. Everything Artsci has to offer is a learning experience. You won’t remember spending an extra hour on that biology lab, but you will remember your discussion of local fauna at a Milk & Cookies.

What Artsci means to Anne

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science encouraged me to think and express myself creatively. Assignments and essays often allowed for creative expression — avenues which I often liked to pursue.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After graduating, I went on to receive a Master’s in Architecture. After working at several architectural offices, I am now working in Film and Television as a Set Designer.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Engage with your classes, your peers, your professors, and your assignments.

What Artsci means to Anne

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science encouraged me to think and express myself creatively. Assignments and essays often allowed for creative expression — avenues which I often liked to pursue.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After graduating, I went on to receive a Master’s in Architecture. After working at several architectural offices, I am now working in Film and Television as a Set Designer.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Engage with your classes, your peers, your professors, and your assignments.

What Artsci means to Vass

My experience in the Arts & Science program was very valuable and empowering. I feel capable and confident that I can always learn and seek to understand/grasp/master something. Being flexible enough to do quantitative work while having qualitative skills and writing talent is extremely helpful in the labour force. Artsci prepared me for a career in public policy because you are working with people from different disciplines/sectors on the same challenge or problem.

What Artsci means to Vass

My experience in the Arts & Science program was very valuable and empowering. I feel capable and confident that I can always learn and seek to understand/grasp/master something. Being flexible enough to do quantitative work while having qualitative skills and writing talent is extremely helpful in the labour force. Artsci prepared me for a career in public policy because you are working with people from different disciplines/sectors on the same challenge or problem.

What Artsci means to Kate

My life in the “community of learning” that is the Arts & Science Program was beautiful, rich, and endlessly challenging. It made me use every nook and cranny of my brain every day. Artsci is much more important than a preparation for a career – it’s a preparation for becoming a thinking person, for living the examined life. My Artsci education clarified my ethical reasoning and sharpened my conscience. It made me realise that beyond my limited knowledge and experience lies such a rich and complex world, and it showed me the harm that comes when good intentions are combined with ignorance. In Artsci I experienced the beauty of having my worldview changed by listening to another person. Now I listen expectantly, aware of the expertise of others.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Dear fellow Artscis, make the most of this marvellous time! Of course there will be splendid adventures after you graduate, but this program is unique in my experience. You’ll come out better than you went in – sceptical, critical, creative, hopeful, and maladjusted in the Northrop-Frye-ian sense. Good luck!

What Artsci means to Kate

My life in the “community of learning” that is the Arts & Science Program was beautiful, rich, and endlessly challenging. It made me use every nook and cranny of my brain every day. Artsci is much more important than a preparation for a career – it’s a preparation for becoming a thinking person, for living the examined life. My Artsci education clarified my ethical reasoning and sharpened my conscience. It made me realise that beyond my limited knowledge and experience lies such a rich and complex world, and it showed me the harm that comes when good intentions are combined with ignorance. In Artsci I experienced the beauty of having my worldview changed by listening to another person. Now I listen expectantly, aware of the expertise of others.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Dear fellow Artscis, make the most of this marvellous time! Of course there will be splendid adventures after you graduate, but this program is unique in my experience. You’ll come out better than you went in – sceptical, critical, creative, hopeful, and maladjusted in the Northrop-Frye-ian sense. Good luck!

What Artsci means to Lee

What Arts & Science means to me:
Artsci has taught me many important lessons over the years. One lesson that has really stuck with me is that learning and questioning the world around us is not only an important endeavour, but it can help you find community and the people you want to surround yourself with.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After Artsci, I dabbled in the field of policy research at York University as well as writing policies for non-profit organizations. I quickly learned that it was my relationships with people that mattered most, and so I returned to school for a Master’s in Social Work at Laurier. I went into the field of children’s mental health, and have found my home as a clinician working with children and families.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
There is more to life than a career path, and much of what is important to us can fall outside of paid work!

What Artsci means to Lee

What Arts & Science means to me:
Artsci has taught me many important lessons over the years. One lesson that has really stuck with me is that learning and questioning the world around us is not only an important endeavour, but it can help you find community and the people you want to surround yourself with.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After Artsci, I dabbled in the field of policy research at York University as well as writing policies for non-profit organizations. I quickly learned that it was my relationships with people that mattered most, and so I returned to school for a Master’s in Social Work at Laurier. I went into the field of children’s mental health, and have found my home as a clinician working with children and families.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
There is more to life than a career path, and much of what is important to us can fall outside of paid work!

What Artsci means to Kathleen

What Arts & Science means to me:
Artsci changed how I think, how I argue(!), how I express myself through writing. I was regularly challenged and humbled. It is remarkable how many times a specific class discussion or assignment has come to mind and helped me think through a problem. The skills that Artsci gives you to be an open-minded learner and a critical thinker are invaluable.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I went into medical school at McMaster and did pediatrics residency in Ottawa. After graduating I did a Masters in Medical Education at Harvard and became focused on the care of children with medical complexity. I now work in complex care at Boston Children’s Hospital and hold educator roles in the simulator program and on our online learning platform.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Don’t be afraid to explore broadly. It will not be time wasted, and what you learn about yourself and about other disciplines will serve you well no matter what path you end up on!

What Artsci means to Kathleen

What Arts & Science means to me:
Artsci changed how I think, how I argue(!), how I express myself through writing. I was regularly challenged and humbled. It is remarkable how many times a specific class discussion or assignment has come to mind and helped me think through a problem. The skills that Artsci gives you to be an open-minded learner and a critical thinker are invaluable.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I went into medical school at McMaster and did pediatrics residency in Ottawa. After graduating I did a Masters in Medical Education at Harvard and became focused on the care of children with medical complexity. I now work in complex care at Boston Children’s Hospital and hold educator roles in the simulator program and on our online learning platform.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Don’t be afraid to explore broadly. It will not be time wasted, and what you learn about yourself and about other disciplines will serve you well no matter what path you end up on!

What Artsci means to Alexis

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science was, by far, the best university learning and social experience I have ever had. I am still in touch with my closest friends; it was from each other that we learned the most, with the guidance and within the context provided by our profs. We were encouraged to think for ourselves, to think critically, and to come to our own conclusions. As I went further into academia, this freedom shrunk, unfortunately (but I am hoping this is not everyone’s experience!) I’m about to defend my PhD in English and I am so grateful to have had the Artsci experience, to be able to maintain my friendships from those years, and to contribute in the ways I can. Every year, it’s a remarkable group.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
My career path has been circuitous! I went on to do an MA in English, then had my first child, then a PhD, second child, and a few years later I withdrew to attend to my young children during a divorce. I worked at Sun Life, which could not be further from my interests. In 2017, I went back to school and plan to defend shortly. I’m currently working with the Office of Research at the University of Waterloo, teaching, supporting, and helping professors write various grant proposals — from Canada Research Chairs, to NSERC Discovery Grants, to New Frontiers — pretty much an Artsci writer’s dream! It also allows a work-life balance, which is crucial for me to parent, socialize, and pursue my own arts and other interests.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Don’t worry about what you’re going to do with your degree. Everything is going to change anyway. Keep thinking for yourselves; the world needs your creativity and insights!

What Artsci means to Alexis

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science was, by far, the best university learning and social experience I have ever had. I am still in touch with my closest friends; it was from each other that we learned the most, with the guidance and within the context provided by our profs. We were encouraged to think for ourselves, to think critically, and to come to our own conclusions. As I went further into academia, this freedom shrunk, unfortunately (but I am hoping this is not everyone’s experience!) I’m about to defend my PhD in English and I am so grateful to have had the Artsci experience, to be able to maintain my friendships from those years, and to contribute in the ways I can. Every year, it’s a remarkable group.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
My career path has been circuitous! I went on to do an MA in English, then had my first child, then a PhD, second child, and a few years later I withdrew to attend to my young children during a divorce. I worked at Sun Life, which could not be further from my interests. In 2017, I went back to school and plan to defend shortly. I’m currently working with the Office of Research at the University of Waterloo, teaching, supporting, and helping professors write various grant proposals — from Canada Research Chairs, to NSERC Discovery Grants, to New Frontiers — pretty much an Artsci writer’s dream! It also allows a work-life balance, which is crucial for me to parent, socialize, and pursue my own arts and other interests.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Don’t worry about what you’re going to do with your degree. Everything is going to change anyway. Keep thinking for yourselves; the world needs your creativity and insights!

What Artsci means to Nitasha

My experience in the Arts & Science program was one of wonder, growth, joy, and creation. It was a time where I met some of the most loving, interesting, and thoughtful people in my life. It was a process of learning, un-learning, and re-learning about the world and myself, and it has meant so much to me. I think that it has given me the best educational and thinking tools to move forward not just in my professional life, but also in my personal life. Arts & Science teaches you how to think; it inspires you to explore ideas and talk about them with others. It inspires you to read, and ask questions. It gives you the confidence to say ‘I don’t know’ and the experience of joy when you think you might. All these things have prepared me to succeed in medicine.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Enjoy and soak it in! You will be an ArtSci ’til you die, whether you know it or not, because this is an experience that will give you character, tools, friends, family, and ideas that will become such a huge part of you. I am thankful and I hope you are too.

What Artsci means to Nitasha

My experience in the Arts & Science program was one of wonder, growth, joy, and creation. It was a time where I met some of the most loving, interesting, and thoughtful people in my life. It was a process of learning, un-learning, and re-learning about the world and myself, and it has meant so much to me. I think that it has given me the best educational and thinking tools to move forward not just in my professional life, but also in my personal life. Arts & Science teaches you how to think; it inspires you to explore ideas and talk about them with others. It inspires you to read, and ask questions. It gives you the confidence to say ‘I don’t know’ and the experience of joy when you think you might. All these things have prepared me to succeed in medicine.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Enjoy and soak it in! You will be an ArtSci ’til you die, whether you know it or not, because this is an experience that will give you character, tools, friends, family, and ideas that will become such a huge part of you. I am thankful and I hope you are too.

What Artsci means to Ashley

What Arts & Science means to me:
Artsci was a door to a world I didn’t know existed.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
Artsci (Econ Minor) -> MPH Global Health at SFU -> Policy Analyst at PHAC via RPL -> Health Program Coordinator at AKF Afghanistan -> Research Coordinator at Ottawa Inner City Health -> MD at McMaster -> Residency in Rural Family Medicine -> Rural GP in Bancroft (Hometown)

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
The year I finished Artsci, I applied to law school, medical school and graduate programs in public health and health economics. I was waitlisted to law school and medical school and got into both graduate programs. It was a good thing I took a circuitous road to medical school. I am a better doctor for it. Medical school and residency were easier as a result. If I had never gotten in, I would still be doing meaningful work that I enjoyed. Live your life as honestly as possible, for yourself and the greater good, and it will all be OK.

What Artsci means to Ashley

What Arts & Science means to me:
Artsci was a door to a world I didn’t know existed.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
Artsci (Econ Minor) -> MPH Global Health at SFU -> Policy Analyst at PHAC via RPL -> Health Program Coordinator at AKF Afghanistan -> Research Coordinator at Ottawa Inner City Health -> MD at McMaster -> Residency in Rural Family Medicine -> Rural GP in Bancroft (Hometown)

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
The year I finished Artsci, I applied to law school, medical school and graduate programs in public health and health economics. I was waitlisted to law school and medical school and got into both graduate programs. It was a good thing I took a circuitous road to medical school. I am a better doctor for it. Medical school and residency were easier as a result. If I had never gotten in, I would still be doing meaningful work that I enjoyed. Live your life as honestly as possible, for yourself and the greater good, and it will all be OK.

What Artsci means to Trevor

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science was a major site of intellectual exploration and growth for me. It gave me the opportunity to read and think broadly for four years, to engage with different fields and traditions, and to take time to consider how and what I could contribute to the world (I’m still working on it). I still think about particular discussions and disagreements in the classroom, specific texts and ideas I encountered, but I think what meant the most to me was a mode of inquiry I encountered in Artsci, unafraid to cross boundaries while respecting difference.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
Since graduating from Arts & Science Program with a combined honours in Art History, I pursued graduate studies in art history, first at McGill University, and then at Harvard for my PhD. Focusing on modern European art, I developed a dissertation that led me to conduct research in museums and archives in cities including Paris, Berlin, and New York. I worked at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York for two years as a doctoral fellow, before taking a postdoctoral fellowship at Columbia University. During this time, I rewrote my dissertation as a book about the theories of language developed by cubist and Dadaist artists in the first years of the twentieth century, titled “Total Expansion of the Letter: Avant-Garde Art and Language after Mallarmé,” forthcoming from the MIT Press in 2020. Since 2017 I’ve been Assistant Professor of Art History at the University of Calgary, where I try to bring something of the pedagogical breadth and intensity of the Arts & Science Program to my students.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
The most important aspects of the Arts & Science program can sometimes occur outside or between the cracks of the official curriculum. Unexpected friendships and new avenues for discovery can’t be planned for, so the most important thing is to stay open — a fundamental Artsci value.

What Artsci means to Trevor

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science was a major site of intellectual exploration and growth for me. It gave me the opportunity to read and think broadly for four years, to engage with different fields and traditions, and to take time to consider how and what I could contribute to the world (I’m still working on it). I still think about particular discussions and disagreements in the classroom, specific texts and ideas I encountered, but I think what meant the most to me was a mode of inquiry I encountered in Artsci, unafraid to cross boundaries while respecting difference.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
Since graduating from Arts & Science Program with a combined honours in Art History, I pursued graduate studies in art history, first at McGill University, and then at Harvard for my PhD. Focusing on modern European art, I developed a dissertation that led me to conduct research in museums and archives in cities including Paris, Berlin, and New York. I worked at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York for two years as a doctoral fellow, before taking a postdoctoral fellowship at Columbia University. During this time, I rewrote my dissertation as a book about the theories of language developed by cubist and Dadaist artists in the first years of the twentieth century, titled “Total Expansion of the Letter: Avant-Garde Art and Language after Mallarmé,” forthcoming from the MIT Press in 2020. Since 2017 I’ve been Assistant Professor of Art History at the University of Calgary, where I try to bring something of the pedagogical breadth and intensity of the Arts & Science Program to my students.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
The most important aspects of the Arts & Science program can sometimes occur outside or between the cracks of the official curriculum. Unexpected friendships and new avenues for discovery can’t be planned for, so the most important thing is to stay open — a fundamental Artsci value.

What Artsci means to Heidi

This was a community that provided space to think outside the box, analyze problems holistically, and encouraged independent creative thought. I felt nurtured by professors to be innovative and inspired by classmates to keep on pushing.

Given that I work in Humanitarian Assistance and Rural Development, my education well prepared me to deal with numerous multiple sectors of this field in an interdisciplinary manner. Instead of creating silos between health, agriculture, education, governance, etc., I work on strategies to integrate programming and ensure both immediate needs and lasting solutions are delivered to populations most in need.

Since graduating, I received my MA in International Affairs, focusing on Conflict Management, and have worked in numerous fragile states, including Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Somalia, Yemen, South Sudan, and on the Syria Crisis (Jordan and Lebanon). Having worked for the Aga Khan Foundation, Norwegian Refugee Council, United Nation’s Word Food Programme, Save the Children, and the Government of Afghanistan, I have explored the nexus of international governments, organizations, non-profits, and donors, while taking numerous opportunities to travel extensively and explore art, culture, and geography globally.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

The Arts & Science Program prepared me to think critically and holistically about the major challenges facing today’s society – and present both arguments and solutions in an articulate and creative manner. My classmates are agents of change around the world, my professors are still dear friends, and my experience at McMaster will never be forgotten.

What Artsci means to Heidi

This was a community that provided space to think outside the box, analyze problems holistically, and encouraged independent creative thought. I felt nurtured by professors to be innovative and inspired by classmates to keep on pushing.

Given that I work in Humanitarian Assistance and Rural Development, my education well prepared me to deal with numerous multiple sectors of this field in an interdisciplinary manner. Instead of creating silos between health, agriculture, education, governance, etc., I work on strategies to integrate programming and ensure both immediate needs and lasting solutions are delivered to populations most in need.

Since graduating, I received my MA in International Affairs, focusing on Conflict Management, and have worked in numerous fragile states, including Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Somalia, Yemen, South Sudan, and on the Syria Crisis (Jordan and Lebanon). Having worked for the Aga Khan Foundation, Norwegian Refugee Council, United Nation’s Word Food Programme, Save the Children, and the Government of Afghanistan, I have explored the nexus of international governments, organizations, non-profits, and donors, while taking numerous opportunities to travel extensively and explore art, culture, and geography globally.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

The Arts & Science Program prepared me to think critically and holistically about the major challenges facing today’s society – and present both arguments and solutions in an articulate and creative manner. My classmates are agents of change around the world, my professors are still dear friends, and my experience at McMaster will never be forgotten.

What Artsci means to Dave

What Arts & Science means to me:
Curiosity. Care. Community. Inquiry.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After Arts & Science I moved to London and completed an MA in Cultural Studies at Goldsmiths College in 2007. I spent three years back in Toronto working at a social housing not-for-profit. I then returned to school and completed a PhD in Communication and Culture at York and Ryerson Universities in 2015. During that time I worked as an Adjunct Professor and Curriculum Developer at OCAD University, Ryerson University, and George Brown College. I then spent two years as Assistant Professor of Film, Digital Media and Culture at Portland State University, and recently returned to Toronto to take up my current position as Professor and Program Coordinator of the Bachelor of Digital Experience Design program at George Brown College.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Your insatiable curiosity, and the desire to see where that curiosity leads, is a precious gift. Enjoy this rare and special time to explore that curiosity with a community of likeminded individuals.

What Artsci means to Dave

What Arts & Science means to me:
Curiosity. Care. Community. Inquiry.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After Arts & Science I moved to London and completed an MA in Cultural Studies at Goldsmiths College in 2007. I spent three years back in Toronto working at a social housing not-for-profit. I then returned to school and completed a PhD in Communication and Culture at York and Ryerson Universities in 2015. During that time I worked as an Adjunct Professor and Curriculum Developer at OCAD University, Ryerson University, and George Brown College. I then spent two years as Assistant Professor of Film, Digital Media and Culture at Portland State University, and recently returned to Toronto to take up my current position as Professor and Program Coordinator of the Bachelor of Digital Experience Design program at George Brown College.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Your insatiable curiosity, and the desire to see where that curiosity leads, is a precious gift. Enjoy this rare and special time to explore that curiosity with a community of likeminded individuals.

What Artsci means to Erin

Arts & Science was the foundation and continues to be the best education I’ve had. In Artsci, I learned how to think critically, how to approach an issue, dive in and learn all that I can. My Artsci education and the friends and professors I had during my time at McMaster will always be close to my heart and made me the person I am today. Artsci gave me the tools to approach any problem with logic, but also creativity. It’s where I learned to ‘think outside the box,’ a skill which has leveraged me into many educational and professional opportunities.

I still keep in touch with many many Artccis from my year. They continue to be a source of inspiration professionally and personally. I keep a copy of the Odyssey on my shelf and have traveled with it. After completing chemistry and then environmental policy masters degrees, I continue to look for opportunities at the border of Arts & Science.

What Artsci means to Erin

Arts & Science was the foundation and continues to be the best education I’ve had. In Artsci, I learned how to think critically, how to approach an issue, dive in and learn all that I can. My Artsci education and the friends and professors I had during my time at McMaster will always be close to my heart and made me the person I am today. Artsci gave me the tools to approach any problem with logic, but also creativity. It’s where I learned to ‘think outside the box,’ a skill which has leveraged me into many educational and professional opportunities.

I still keep in touch with many many Artccis from my year. They continue to be a source of inspiration professionally and personally. I keep a copy of the Odyssey on my shelf and have traveled with it. After completing chemistry and then environmental policy masters degrees, I continue to look for opportunities at the border of Arts & Science.

What Artsci means to Juliana

“Community of learning” is a great description of the program. I loved meeting other students who were motivated to learn for the sake of learning. I have taken the critical thinking skills that I learned in the program to all other courses and into my graduate studies and career. I was interested in social justice issues before Arts & Science, but this interest grew substantially as a result of the first year Inquiry course, as well as the community of caring and involved students. My current career in mental health is substantially influenced by my interest in social justice, science and psychology. Personally, my closest friends are Artscis, and I love that we continue to share interests despite all choosing very different careers.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

If I had to choose to my undergrad again, I would choose Arts & Science all over again. It was a fantastic experience, both academically and socially. I loved the community and to this day, the social connections are the best ones I have. I also run into Artscis in surprising places.

What Artsci means to Juliana

“Community of learning” is a great description of the program. I loved meeting other students who were motivated to learn for the sake of learning. I have taken the critical thinking skills that I learned in the program to all other courses and into my graduate studies and career. I was interested in social justice issues before Arts & Science, but this interest grew substantially as a result of the first year Inquiry course, as well as the community of caring and involved students. My current career in mental health is substantially influenced by my interest in social justice, science and psychology. Personally, my closest friends are Artscis, and I love that we continue to share interests despite all choosing very different careers.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

If I had to choose to my undergrad again, I would choose Arts & Science all over again. It was a fantastic experience, both academically and socially. I loved the community and to this day, the social connections are the best ones I have. I also run into Artscis in surprising places.

What Artsci means to Erin

One of the greatest benefits of having been an Arts & Science student is the opportunity to truly engage issues from multiple perspectives, and to recognize the advantage of a diversity of background, discipline and skills in problem solving. In a world that tends towards specialization and prefers to box individuals into skill sets and careers, this program allows students to explore their strengths more broadly. Above all, what I took away from this program is a constant awe for the amazing people that formed the students, staff and faculty, and how much they cared about and respected one another – and still do, even as we have moved in different directions. Arts & Science promoted curiosity, in all spheres, inluding social, political and academic. It encouraged students to look beyond the surface and challenge prevailing attitudes, including our own. Community engagement was also such an important part of my experience, and to this day my life would feel incomplete if I weren’t invested in my local community and issues affecting it.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Four years can seem like a long time, but it goes by so quickly. It is rare in one’s life to have a time, as in Arts & Science, when you are surrounded by so many interesting, intelligent and motivated people. Take advantage of their company, and of the marvelous faculty who have kept this program going to the benefit of so many students. I am always proud to tell people where I went to school, and about the unique qualities of the Arts & Science Program.

What Artsci means to Erin

One of the greatest benefits of having been an Arts & Science student is the opportunity to truly engage issues from multiple perspectives, and to recognize the advantage of a diversity of background, discipline and skills in problem solving. In a world that tends towards specialization and prefers to box individuals into skill sets and careers, this program allows students to explore their strengths more broadly. Above all, what I took away from this program is a constant awe for the amazing people that formed the students, staff and faculty, and how much they cared about and respected one another – and still do, even as we have moved in different directions. Arts & Science promoted curiosity, in all spheres, inluding social, political and academic. It encouraged students to look beyond the surface and challenge prevailing attitudes, including our own. Community engagement was also such an important part of my experience, and to this day my life would feel incomplete if I weren’t invested in my local community and issues affecting it.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Four years can seem like a long time, but it goes by so quickly. It is rare in one’s life to have a time, as in Arts & Science, when you are surrounded by so many interesting, intelligent and motivated people. Take advantage of their company, and of the marvelous faculty who have kept this program going to the benefit of so many students. I am always proud to tell people where I went to school, and about the unique qualities of the Arts & Science Program.

What Artsci means to Lyanne

What Arts & Science means to me:
Artsci provided an incredible foundation for the rest of my life. I pursued two postgraduate degrees that were both also interdisciplinary, and I find the broad perspectives help me contribute in all aspects of life. I’m still very close with many of the friends I met through Artsci — they keep me honest and accountable!

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
It’s been indirect. I started with an MA in Indigenous Governance at UVic because I felt I still had so much to learn about Indigenous/Settler relationships in Canada. I worked for a couple of years at a research project at UVic, then went on to pursue midwifery. In addition to working as a midwife, I teach an interdisciplinary emergency obstetrics course and I work as a clinical teaching associate for the Island Medical Program, supporting medical and nurse practitioner students in performing trauma-informed pelvic exams.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Arts & Science is a remarkable opportunity to come together with engaged, enthusiastic humans before you take off in a million different directions. These friendships can continue to enrich your life and broaden your perspectives well beyond graduation.

… and when in doubt, try milk and cookies.

What Artsci means to Lyanne

What Arts & Science means to me:
Artsci provided an incredible foundation for the rest of my life. I pursued two postgraduate degrees that were both also interdisciplinary, and I find the broad perspectives help me contribute in all aspects of life. I’m still very close with many of the friends I met through Artsci — they keep me honest and accountable!

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
It’s been indirect. I started with an MA in Indigenous Governance at UVic because I felt I still had so much to learn about Indigenous/Settler relationships in Canada. I worked for a couple of years at a research project at UVic, then went on to pursue midwifery. In addition to working as a midwife, I teach an interdisciplinary emergency obstetrics course and I work as a clinical teaching associate for the Island Medical Program, supporting medical and nurse practitioner students in performing trauma-informed pelvic exams.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Arts & Science is a remarkable opportunity to come together with engaged, enthusiastic humans before you take off in a million different directions. These friendships can continue to enrich your life and broaden your perspectives well beyond graduation.

… and when in doubt, try milk and cookies.

What Artsci means to Britt

Having just started a new job, I’ve found myself describing my undergraduate studies more than once in the last few days. Every time I do, I am reminded of what a completely special place it is, and how it was exactly what I was hoping it would be. One thing my time in Arts & Science encouraged in me is to expect group work situations to be collaborative rather than competitive, where every participant is contributes meaningfully to the goal. While this was not always the practice in law school, it has served me very well in my career in the museum sector.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

The Arts & Science program is truly unique, and you should cherish it while you’re there. Then, it’s up to you to do your best to bring the feeling of Artsci to your future school and work environments, as much as possible.

What Artsci means to Britt

Having just started a new job, I’ve found myself describing my undergraduate studies more than once in the last few days. Every time I do, I am reminded of what a completely special place it is, and how it was exactly what I was hoping it would be. One thing my time in Arts & Science encouraged in me is to expect group work situations to be collaborative rather than competitive, where every participant is contributes meaningfully to the goal. While this was not always the practice in law school, it has served me very well in my career in the museum sector.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

The Arts & Science program is truly unique, and you should cherish it while you’re there. Then, it’s up to you to do your best to bring the feeling of Artsci to your future school and work environments, as much as possible.

What Artsci means to David

The education I was able to obtain in the program was rich and lasting; I draw from the ideas and skills I learned at Mac in every dimension of my life. Nothing in my subsequent academic life has proven as stimulating or rewarding as my years as an Artsci. As well, the wonderful friendships and relationships that came out of my time in Arts & Science have been one of the program’s greatest gifts. From my first days at Mac, Artiscis have been inspiring, intelligent and entertaining, and I feel fortunate to be a member of the Arts & Science community. The program’s milieu and the company of Artscis were a great source of inspiration for my plans and goals after the program. In my professional life, I wear many different hats, and from hour to hour, find myself thinking back to lessons from nearly all of the program’s core courses. Yesterday morning, I was writing a grant proposal and statistical analysis plan with thoughts of Inquiry, Writing, Stats, and Logic in mind; in the evening I was counseling patients with lessons from Lit coming back to me. I can think of nowhere else but Arts & Science where I could have found such grounding and preparation.

His message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Enjoy the program! Take as much from Arts & Science as you can, and give back as much as you’re able. Don’t worry too much about what will come after. And meet as many of the outstanding Artscis as possible.

What Artsci means to David

The education I was able to obtain in the program was rich and lasting; I draw from the ideas and skills I learned at Mac in every dimension of my life. Nothing in my subsequent academic life has proven as stimulating or rewarding as my years as an Artsci. As well, the wonderful friendships and relationships that came out of my time in Arts & Science have been one of the program’s greatest gifts. From my first days at Mac, Artiscis have been inspiring, intelligent and entertaining, and I feel fortunate to be a member of the Arts & Science community. The program’s milieu and the company of Artscis were a great source of inspiration for my plans and goals after the program. In my professional life, I wear many different hats, and from hour to hour, find myself thinking back to lessons from nearly all of the program’s core courses. Yesterday morning, I was writing a grant proposal and statistical analysis plan with thoughts of Inquiry, Writing, Stats, and Logic in mind; in the evening I was counseling patients with lessons from Lit coming back to me. I can think of nowhere else but Arts & Science where I could have found such grounding and preparation.

His message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Enjoy the program! Take as much from Arts & Science as you can, and give back as much as you’re able. Don’t worry too much about what will come after. And meet as many of the outstanding Artscis as possible.

What Artsci means to Tasneem

What Arts & Science means to me:
It was a wonderful 4 years to build strong, life-long friendships, and develop skills that I use all the time in my career.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I originally wanted to be a teacher, but ended up doing my Masters in Public Administration. I have been working in a variety of roles in the Government of Ontario since I finished my MPA (health, housing, municipal affairs, and now transportation).

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
You will learn how to think critically through the culmination of the courses and experiences you’ll acquire in your time as an Artsci. You’ll be strong thinker (and writer) – skills that are sorely needed in today’s work places.

What Artsci means to Tasneem

What Arts & Science means to me:
It was a wonderful 4 years to build strong, life-long friendships, and develop skills that I use all the time in my career.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I originally wanted to be a teacher, but ended up doing my Masters in Public Administration. I have been working in a variety of roles in the Government of Ontario since I finished my MPA (health, housing, municipal affairs, and now transportation).

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
You will learn how to think critically through the culmination of the courses and experiences you’ll acquire in your time as an Artsci. You’ll be strong thinker (and writer) – skills that are sorely needed in today’s work places.

What Artsci means to Eleanor

The variety of interesting, sincere classmates and the passionate professors made Arts & Science an exciting environment. I remain inspired by Artsci’s approach of idealism coupled with a determination to consider real-world problems and solutions. Plus, I am privileged to still be in contact with great friends I met through the program.

What Artsci means to Eleanor

The variety of interesting, sincere classmates and the passionate professors made Arts & Science an exciting environment. I remain inspired by Artsci’s approach of idealism coupled with a determination to consider real-world problems and solutions. Plus, I am privileged to still be in contact with great friends I met through the program.

What Artsci means to Alpna

Arts & Science exposed me to real liberal arts education, with much emphasis on critical thinking and reflection. I formed deep and meaningful friendships with other classmates and professors because of the intimacy of the program. As a creative person, this was the perfect program for me. Arts & Science was also the perfect education for me as I eventually entered into the medical field. The humanities and sciences can complement each other and have made me a better physician. I am so happy I did not choose a straight science route and instead had a well-rounded and challenging educational journey that prepared me for being an open-minded physician and therapist.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Congratulations on beginning an exciting journey of creative learning in the Arts & Science program, and cherish the amazing friendships you will undoubtedly make in the next few years!

What Artsci means to Alpna

Arts & Science exposed me to real liberal arts education, with much emphasis on critical thinking and reflection. I formed deep and meaningful friendships with other classmates and professors because of the intimacy of the program. As a creative person, this was the perfect program for me. Arts & Science was also the perfect education for me as I eventually entered into the medical field. The humanities and sciences can complement each other and have made me a better physician. I am so happy I did not choose a straight science route and instead had a well-rounded and challenging educational journey that prepared me for being an open-minded physician and therapist.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Congratulations on beginning an exciting journey of creative learning in the Arts & Science program, and cherish the amazing friendships you will undoubtedly make in the next few years!

What Artsci means to Jonathan

What Arts & Science means to me:
My time in the Arts & Science Program provided me a space to grow up and mature. I learned to think critically and live authentically.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I graduated from Artsci with the belief that I could pursue almost any career and came to China to learn more about my ancestral land. For the first few years, I tried different professions. I worked at an NGO and I also started my own adventure tour company. Eventually, I became interested in studying Traditional Chinese Medicine, which I thought would give me both a deeper understanding of Chinese culture and a pragmatic skill that could be used to help people.

Enrolling at the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine was one of the most challenging experiences in my life. Classes were all in Chinese, and the style of education was completely different from Artsci. The emphasis was on rote memorization and passing exams. At the same time, I apprenticed with an experienced Chinese medical doctor. This nine-year apprenticeship was almost like getting a PhD in Artsci.

Being a good Chinese medical doctor involves a combination of understanding Chinese philosophy and researching of classical texts, integrated with practical clinical skills. Critical thinking skills developed in Artsci prepared me for this profession, as it has helped me while I diagnose patients, and when I conduct research, write about and lecture on Chinese medicine. Studying Chinese medicine was the best decision in my life.

However, the route I took to finding this profession was guided by the education I received in the Arts & Science Program. It kept me open to all the potential careers out there.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
One year, while I was still an undergrad, I was worried about my future after Artsci. Most of the people around me seemed to know what they wanted to do. For guidance I talked to Dr. Barbara Ferrier, former director of the Arts & Science Program. She told me, “you don’t have to make a decision now. You’re still young. Take your time.” I took her advice to heart. It guided me in the years after I graduated and I’m extremely grateful for her words of wisdom. So don’t forget: you don’t have to make a decision about your future now. Take your time.

What Artsci means to Jonathan

What Arts & Science means to me:
My time in the Arts & Science Program provided me a space to grow up and mature. I learned to think critically and live authentically.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I graduated from Artsci with the belief that I could pursue almost any career and came to China to learn more about my ancestral land. For the first few years, I tried different professions. I worked at an NGO and I also started my own adventure tour company. Eventually, I became interested in studying Traditional Chinese Medicine, which I thought would give me both a deeper understanding of Chinese culture and a pragmatic skill that could be used to help people.

Enrolling at the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine was one of the most challenging experiences in my life. Classes were all in Chinese, and the style of education was completely different from Artsci. The emphasis was on rote memorization and passing exams. At the same time, I apprenticed with an experienced Chinese medical doctor. This nine-year apprenticeship was almost like getting a PhD in Artsci.

Being a good Chinese medical doctor involves a combination of understanding Chinese philosophy and researching of classical texts, integrated with practical clinical skills. Critical thinking skills developed in Artsci prepared me for this profession, as it has helped me while I diagnose patients, and when I conduct research, write about and lecture on Chinese medicine. Studying Chinese medicine was the best decision in my life.

However, the route I took to finding this profession was guided by the education I received in the Arts & Science Program. It kept me open to all the potential careers out there.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
One year, while I was still an undergrad, I was worried about my future after Artsci. Most of the people around me seemed to know what they wanted to do. For guidance I talked to Dr. Barbara Ferrier, former director of the Arts & Science Program. She told me, “you don’t have to make a decision now. You’re still young. Take your time.” I took her advice to heart. It guided me in the years after I graduated and I’m extremely grateful for her words of wisdom. So don’t forget: you don’t have to make a decision about your future now. Take your time.

What Artsci means to Michelle

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science was my ignition point, where I found my voice, and where I found my tribe.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
Career switchback more like! Following graduation I worked in international development and conservation, then jumped into management consulting before retraining as an actor and working for a startup as a creative producer.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Don’t stress too much trying to figure out what direction to take. Any direction is great! Just pick one and start. Things have a way of coming together in the most unpredictable ways.

What Artsci means to Michelle

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science was my ignition point, where I found my voice, and where I found my tribe.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
Career switchback more like! Following graduation I worked in international development and conservation, then jumped into management consulting before retraining as an actor and working for a startup as a creative producer.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Don’t stress too much trying to figure out what direction to take. Any direction is great! Just pick one and start. Things have a way of coming together in the most unpredictable ways.

What Artsci means to Stephen

My Arts & Science experience was extremely rewarding. Great professors, classmates, and friends coupled with wonderful opportunities for reflection, creativity, scholarship, and experiential learning. Arts & Science reinforced the importance of curiosity, inquiry, rigour, inclusiveness, and collaboration. These elements have been very valuable in my professional and community endeavours.

His message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Keep striving to “transform tomorrow today.”

What Artsci means to Stephen

My Arts & Science experience was extremely rewarding. Great professors, classmates, and friends coupled with wonderful opportunities for reflection, creativity, scholarship, and experiential learning. Arts & Science reinforced the importance of curiosity, inquiry, rigour, inclusiveness, and collaboration. These elements have been very valuable in my professional and community endeavours.

His message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Keep striving to “transform tomorrow today.”

What Artsci means to Johanna

I still count my education experiences within the Arts & Science program as the best of all three of my degrees in terms of formative, fundamental abilities as a communicator, critical thinker, and engaged citizen. This includes experiences inside the classroom and out. I am a better thinker, a better writer, and a better speaker because of Arts & Science. I have the confidence to have an opinion and to share it. I appreciate that there are many sides to every story, I know when I need more information and I know how to access it. These skills were central to all that is the Arts & Science Program and have been absolutely essential to my further educational career and now my job as a professor.  The program also showed me that everything is connected and never to get stuck in a silo of information. This interdisciplinarity has defined my academic career to date.  Socially and personally … the people within the program are amazing and engaged citizens. I feel continually unworthy and at the same time honoured to be counted among them. They remind me to keep striving and keep thinking about what I can do to make things better.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Renounce careerism even as you work to develop your talents and intellect. Make your education be about expanding your capacity to contribute in new situations. Keep searching for whatever fires you up and do that.

What Artsci means to Johanna

I still count my education experiences within the Arts & Science program as the best of all three of my degrees in terms of formative, fundamental abilities as a communicator, critical thinker, and engaged citizen. This includes experiences inside the classroom and out. I am a better thinker, a better writer, and a better speaker because of Arts & Science. I have the confidence to have an opinion and to share it. I appreciate that there are many sides to every story, I know when I need more information and I know how to access it. These skills were central to all that is the Arts & Science Program and have been absolutely essential to my further educational career and now my job as a professor.  The program also showed me that everything is connected and never to get stuck in a silo of information. This interdisciplinarity has defined my academic career to date.  Socially and personally … the people within the program are amazing and engaged citizens. I feel continually unworthy and at the same time honoured to be counted among them. They remind me to keep striving and keep thinking about what I can do to make things better.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Renounce careerism even as you work to develop your talents and intellect. Make your education be about expanding your capacity to contribute in new situations. Keep searching for whatever fires you up and do that.

What Artsci means to Kate

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science was a haven for intellectual curiosity, a place to try out new ideas and discover many ways of knowing and being. It was also a place to develop deep, abiding, inspiring, and respectful friendships. Both of these aspects of my experience in the Arts & Science Program continue to sustain me as I work to reach across differences on things that matter to healthier, more equitable, and more sustainable communities.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
The world needs you right now, just as you are.

What Artsci means to Kate

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science was a haven for intellectual curiosity, a place to try out new ideas and discover many ways of knowing and being. It was also a place to develop deep, abiding, inspiring, and respectful friendships. Both of these aspects of my experience in the Arts & Science Program continue to sustain me as I work to reach across differences on things that matter to healthier, more equitable, and more sustainable communities.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
The world needs you right now, just as you are.

What Artsci means to Kat

What Arts & Science means to me:
Never, ever stop learning. Problems, puzzles, messes, questions that don’t have answers yet, germination/incubation, mentorship, challenges, contests, hobbies, your own mind/body/history, communities, endurance tests, and new encounters: for four years we were taught to dive deep into experiences and learn everything we could. It doesn’t stop when you get your degree.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I went to law school, worked at the trial court, and got my start as a lawyer in a big city litigation firm in Vancouver. Eight years in, we picked up our lives out west and moved home to the small town where I grew up and started up a rural litigation practice. It’s a family shop with my husband, who is a paralegal, and we represent people in all manner of binds in our local community and other under-served centres nearby. I’m often senior counsel on motions days in our area courthouses, and we have made our office an environment where people can feel comfortable and welcome, unburden themselves and plan how best to go at their problem, and then go down the street for doughnuts at a nationally renowned bakery after they see us. I also have hobbies now – I’m a Master Gardener In Training and just won a trophy in our local perfect pie contest.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Finding the sweet spot of a satisfying/stimulating career and a deep sense of belonging/contributing was the biggest challenge of my first decade or more after leaving McMaster. I always volunteered and was part of some beautiful and interesting communities, so it took me a long time to recognize that there was a more profound level of belonging out there and it was something I actually required. Take notice of your more subtle needs; they may prompt you down some unexpected and meaningful paths.

What Artsci means to Kat

What Arts & Science means to me:
Never, ever stop learning. Problems, puzzles, messes, questions that don’t have answers yet, germination/incubation, mentorship, challenges, contests, hobbies, your own mind/body/history, communities, endurance tests, and new encounters: for four years we were taught to dive deep into experiences and learn everything we could. It doesn’t stop when you get your degree.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I went to law school, worked at the trial court, and got my start as a lawyer in a big city litigation firm in Vancouver. Eight years in, we picked up our lives out west and moved home to the small town where I grew up and started up a rural litigation practice. It’s a family shop with my husband, who is a paralegal, and we represent people in all manner of binds in our local community and other under-served centres nearby. I’m often senior counsel on motions days in our area courthouses, and we have made our office an environment where people can feel comfortable and welcome, unburden themselves and plan how best to go at their problem, and then go down the street for doughnuts at a nationally renowned bakery after they see us. I also have hobbies now – I’m a Master Gardener In Training and just won a trophy in our local perfect pie contest.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Finding the sweet spot of a satisfying/stimulating career and a deep sense of belonging/contributing was the biggest challenge of my first decade or more after leaving McMaster. I always volunteered and was part of some beautiful and interesting communities, so it took me a long time to recognize that there was a more profound level of belonging out there and it was something I actually required. Take notice of your more subtle needs; they may prompt you down some unexpected and meaningful paths.

What Artsci means to Eric

Arts & Science provided me with both a rich and lasting intellectual foundation and a group of peers who did wonders in helping me develop the motivation to pursue excellence and creativity in my life and career. The intellectual agility and flexibility that my time in the program provided helps me every single day in my role as Senior Staff Attorney at Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts – a non-profit based in New York City whose mission is to provide low-cost and pro bono legal services to emerging artists and non-profit arts organizations.

What Artsci means to Eric

Arts & Science provided me with both a rich and lasting intellectual foundation and a group of peers who did wonders in helping me develop the motivation to pursue excellence and creativity in my life and career. The intellectual agility and flexibility that my time in the program provided helps me every single day in my role as Senior Staff Attorney at Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts – a non-profit based in New York City whose mission is to provide low-cost and pro bono legal services to emerging artists and non-profit arts organizations.

What Artsci means to Louise

While providing a well-rounded, experiential education, the Art s & Science program also provided me with lifelong friendships. The small class size, along with super interesting fellow Artscis, made it a comfortable environment from day one, allowed me to get to know everyone and to find true friends among classmates. I work in Communications for a very scientific branch of the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA’s food safety team). Having a scientific background allows me to understand the important and often technical messages I need to get across, while my arts side provides the creativity to communicate the messages in clear, marketable ways, to a vast audience. I worked in Communications for the University of Guelph before coming to OMAFRA, and would make a similar statement for this role.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Enjoy! Keep in contact with your fellow classmates! Celebrate your differences but find comfort in all your similarities.

What Artsci means to Louise

While providing a well-rounded, experiential education, the Art s & Science program also provided me with lifelong friendships. The small class size, along with super interesting fellow Artscis, made it a comfortable environment from day one, allowed me to get to know everyone and to find true friends among classmates. I work in Communications for a very scientific branch of the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA’s food safety team). Having a scientific background allows me to understand the important and often technical messages I need to get across, while my arts side provides the creativity to communicate the messages in clear, marketable ways, to a vast audience. I worked in Communications for the University of Guelph before coming to OMAFRA, and would make a similar statement for this role.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Enjoy! Keep in contact with your fellow classmates! Celebrate your differences but find comfort in all your similarities.

What Artsci means to Fayez

I had so many amazing experiences at Mac that helped shape my career as a surgical oncologist and provided me with foundational elements for my life to come. I started in the Arts & Science Program in 1995. That was hands down my most enriching and fruitful learning experience, out of all my subsequent academic pursuits. Artsci opened my eyes to thinking about problems in completely different and creative ways. I was surrounded by incredible people who had an equal thirst for inquiry and discovery, and there was unbelievable enthusiasm from my instructors and fellow students. I went on to serve in student government in the SRA and then became MSU president. Again, there were so many amazing experiences, not only representing students but also collaborating with university staff and government representatives. I was essentially managing a corporation as well helping to advance postsecondary education. I didn’t realize it at the time, but I can see now how my Mac experiences helped me to be an effective communicator and advocate. I use these skills every day, advocating for my patients and for multidisciplinary oncological care. Reflecting back, I can really appreciate how much I learned and what tremendous opportunities McMaster offered me.

What Artsci means to Fayez

I had so many amazing experiences at Mac that helped shape my career as a surgical oncologist and provided me with foundational elements for my life to come. I started in the Arts & Science Program in 1995. That was hands down my most enriching and fruitful learning experience, out of all my subsequent academic pursuits. Artsci opened my eyes to thinking about problems in completely different and creative ways. I was surrounded by incredible people who had an equal thirst for inquiry and discovery, and there was unbelievable enthusiasm from my instructors and fellow students. I went on to serve in student government in the SRA and then became MSU president. Again, there were so many amazing experiences, not only representing students but also collaborating with university staff and government representatives. I was essentially managing a corporation as well helping to advance postsecondary education. I didn’t realize it at the time, but I can see now how my Mac experiences helped me to be an effective communicator and advocate. I use these skills every day, advocating for my patients and for multidisciplinary oncological care. Reflecting back, I can really appreciate how much I learned and what tremendous opportunities McMaster offered me.

What Artsci means to Elizabeth

It was a privilege to work with peers who were from such diverse backgrounds and experiences, and were so inspiring. Arts & Science broadened my perspective and helped me learn to think outside the box. It also helped me become a better communicator, in discussions and on paper. Having a broad-based education that taught critical thinking and communication were especially important because medical school can sometimes feel very narrow in its scope and focus. However, the practice of medicine requires a broad range of tools and the ability to see things from different viewpoints, not just book knowledge and technical skills.

What Artsci means to Elizabeth

It was a privilege to work with peers who were from such diverse backgrounds and experiences, and were so inspiring. Arts & Science broadened my perspective and helped me learn to think outside the box. It also helped me become a better communicator, in discussions and on paper. Having a broad-based education that taught critical thinking and communication were especially important because medical school can sometimes feel very narrow in its scope and focus. However, the practice of medicine requires a broad range of tools and the ability to see things from different viewpoints, not just book knowledge and technical skills.

What Artsci means to Robert

In a few words, tell us what Arts & Science means to you:
What a group of live wires, creative minds, and quirky characters! I will never forget the wonderful dynamics in our cohort: 50 completely different people thrown together for a 4-year family road trip, and somehow it worked. I carry those dynamics still with my wife Lavinia and our four kids.

How has your career path developed since you graduated from the Arts & Science Program?
The integration and experiential magic of that Artsci two-sidedness never left me; through a career in teaching and administration, indoor and outdoor, settler and Indigenous, French and English, public and private, North and South.

Please provide a brief message to current and future Arts & Science students:
Keep your books! You’ll have time to come back to them some day.

What Artsci means to Robert

In a few words, tell us what Arts & Science means to you:
What a group of live wires, creative minds, and quirky characters! I will never forget the wonderful dynamics in our cohort: 50 completely different people thrown together for a 4-year family road trip, and somehow it worked. I carry those dynamics still with my wife Lavinia and our four kids.

How has your career path developed since you graduated from the Arts & Science Program?
The integration and experiential magic of that Artsci two-sidedness never left me; through a career in teaching and administration, indoor and outdoor, settler and Indigenous, French and English, public and private, North and South.

Please provide a brief message to current and future Arts & Science students:
Keep your books! You’ll have time to come back to them some day.

What Artsci means to Sachin

What Arts & Science means to me:
I loved my time as an Artsci! I learned so much about myself and the world through my interactions with a small but diverse group of bright and inquisitive students and outstanding faculty. The educational experience was amazing; I developed critical thinking skills that I continue to apply in my professional and personal life. I also enjoyed the social side and ended up getting involved in SASS as social convenor and subsequently as SASS president. I have fond memories of coffeehouses, Artsci parties or just hanging out in C105 (the Arts & Science office, library and meeting space at the time). Reflecting on 16 years of post-secondary education, my three years as an Artsci were without a doubt the most intellectually stimulating and personally fulfilling. I made lifelong friends that still enrich my life in so many ways.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After graduating from Arts & Science, I attended medical school at the University of Western Ontario, followed by residency training in internal medicine at the University of Toronto. In 2006, I moved to Calgary, where I completed subspecialty training in respirology and sleep medicine as well as a Master of Science in Health Services Research at the University of Calgary. I stayed on at U of C as a clinician-scientist and am currently an Associate Professor of Medicine and Community Health Sciences. In this role, I have an active clinical practice and research program; participate in some administrative roles related to sleep health and quality improvement; and teach clinical and research trainees. Although I may not have appreciated it at the time, I find that the skills I developed and the experiences I had during my time in Arts & Science help me in each of these roles.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
This is such an amazing time in life, and Arts & Science provides so many growth opportunities. Take advantage of as much as you can and most importantly, have fun!

What Artsci means to Sachin

What Arts & Science means to me:
I loved my time as an Artsci! I learned so much about myself and the world through my interactions with a small but diverse group of bright and inquisitive students and outstanding faculty. The educational experience was amazing; I developed critical thinking skills that I continue to apply in my professional and personal life. I also enjoyed the social side and ended up getting involved in SASS as social convenor and subsequently as SASS president. I have fond memories of coffeehouses, Artsci parties or just hanging out in C105 (the Arts & Science office, library and meeting space at the time). Reflecting on 16 years of post-secondary education, my three years as an Artsci were without a doubt the most intellectually stimulating and personally fulfilling. I made lifelong friends that still enrich my life in so many ways.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After graduating from Arts & Science, I attended medical school at the University of Western Ontario, followed by residency training in internal medicine at the University of Toronto. In 2006, I moved to Calgary, where I completed subspecialty training in respirology and sleep medicine as well as a Master of Science in Health Services Research at the University of Calgary. I stayed on at U of C as a clinician-scientist and am currently an Associate Professor of Medicine and Community Health Sciences. In this role, I have an active clinical practice and research program; participate in some administrative roles related to sleep health and quality improvement; and teach clinical and research trainees. Although I may not have appreciated it at the time, I find that the skills I developed and the experiences I had during my time in Arts & Science help me in each of these roles.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
This is such an amazing time in life, and Arts & Science provides so many growth opportunities. Take advantage of as much as you can and most importantly, have fun!

What Artsci means to Tony

More than anything, Artsci has allowed (forced) me to broaden my perspective on just about everything. In addition to assisting me in choosing a satisfying life/career path, I believe the broad-based Artsci foundation has also increased my personal and professional effectiveness as I’ve matured.

His message to current and future Arts & Science students:

What I wish someone would have told me 15 years ago: “Enjoy (and take full advantage of) the educational opportunities across the multiple disciplines that Artsci affords. Stretch yourself – to and beyond the point of discomfort – as much as possible now, so as to minimize the growing pains you’ll feel down the road.”

What Artsci means to Tony

More than anything, Artsci has allowed (forced) me to broaden my perspective on just about everything. In addition to assisting me in choosing a satisfying life/career path, I believe the broad-based Artsci foundation has also increased my personal and professional effectiveness as I’ve matured.

His message to current and future Arts & Science students:

What I wish someone would have told me 15 years ago: “Enjoy (and take full advantage of) the educational opportunities across the multiple disciplines that Artsci affords. Stretch yourself – to and beyond the point of discomfort – as much as possible now, so as to minimize the growing pains you’ll feel down the road.”

What Artsci means to Rahim

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science is where I grew up, socially and intellectually. It continues to have an immense influence on both those aspects of my life.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After leaving Arts & Science I did a PhD in Mathematics at Illinois, then postdocs at Berkeley and MIT, before coming permanently to Waterloo.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Enjoy these years. And keep reading (literature, that is).

What Artsci means to Rahim

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science is where I grew up, socially and intellectually. It continues to have an immense influence on both those aspects of my life.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
After leaving Arts & Science I did a PhD in Mathematics at Illinois, then postdocs at Berkeley and MIT, before coming permanently to Waterloo.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Enjoy these years. And keep reading (literature, that is).

What Artsci means to Quentin

The opportunity to explore across subjects and disciplines was incredibly valuable both for the diversity of learning (“knowing more stuff”) and for the lesson taught that broad learning and awareness are critical for better understanding the world (“wisdom”). It’s helped me improve communication skills, be an example and advocate for multi-disciplinary learning and skills and reinforced a feeling that narrow specialization is not the only/best approach professionally or personally.

His message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Use your time in the Arts & Science program to question where you are headed and why. It can be a great platform for wherever you want to go, but more importantly it should be an opportunity for figuring that out with a much richer set of colleagues and materials to provoke your mind than you would normally have exposure to.

What Artsci means to Quentin

The opportunity to explore across subjects and disciplines was incredibly valuable both for the diversity of learning (“knowing more stuff”) and for the lesson taught that broad learning and awareness are critical for better understanding the world (“wisdom”). It’s helped me improve communication skills, be an example and advocate for multi-disciplinary learning and skills and reinforced a feeling that narrow specialization is not the only/best approach professionally or personally.

His message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Use your time in the Arts & Science program to question where you are headed and why. It can be a great platform for wherever you want to go, but more importantly it should be an opportunity for figuring that out with a much richer set of colleagues and materials to provoke your mind than you would normally have exposure to.

What Artsci means to Karen

Transformative. Inspiring. Life-changing! The program remains an inspiration for its innovative teaching model, its highly committed faculty, and the amazing community that it has created. The obvious skills: writing, logic, critical thinking, mathematical literacy. Some not-so-obvious skills: leadership, advocacy, strategy. Finally, a skeptical, engaged sensibility, committed to public education and public engagement. Many Artsci students spoke ‘truth to power’ even as students; the experience was empowering, and continues to inspire my work. After completing my doctorate (as a Rhodes Scholar) at Oxford, I joined UBC, where I am now a full Professor, Canada Research Chair, and Director of the Program on Water Governance. I also have a parallel career as a writer and activist on children’s food issues. My recent book on this topic has (somewhat to my surprise) been published in 8 countries, covered in the New York Times, and resulted in an appearance on Good Morning America. We urgently need to change our food culture, and the food justice movement (which I’m proud to be part of) is doing just that. FrenchKidsEatEverything.com.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Dream big – then act on it. What are the five things you’ll do this week that will get you where you want to be in five years? Ten years? Follow your instincts about career choice: you’ll be happier, and do a better job if you have chosen a path that inspires you the most. Find what you are passionate about, and become committed to whatever that might be. Pursue significance, not success.

What Artsci means to Karen

Transformative. Inspiring. Life-changing! The program remains an inspiration for its innovative teaching model, its highly committed faculty, and the amazing community that it has created. The obvious skills: writing, logic, critical thinking, mathematical literacy. Some not-so-obvious skills: leadership, advocacy, strategy. Finally, a skeptical, engaged sensibility, committed to public education and public engagement. Many Artsci students spoke ‘truth to power’ even as students; the experience was empowering, and continues to inspire my work. After completing my doctorate (as a Rhodes Scholar) at Oxford, I joined UBC, where I am now a full Professor, Canada Research Chair, and Director of the Program on Water Governance. I also have a parallel career as a writer and activist on children’s food issues. My recent book on this topic has (somewhat to my surprise) been published in 8 countries, covered in the New York Times, and resulted in an appearance on Good Morning America. We urgently need to change our food culture, and the food justice movement (which I’m proud to be part of) is doing just that. FrenchKidsEatEverything.com.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Dream big – then act on it. What are the five things you’ll do this week that will get you where you want to be in five years? Ten years? Follow your instincts about career choice: you’ll be happier, and do a better job if you have chosen a path that inspires you the most. Find what you are passionate about, and become committed to whatever that might be. Pursue significance, not success.

What Artsci means to Allison

Arts & Science was a wonderful experience in so many different ways. I made life-long friends, learned to think in new ways, and developed skills which have been invaluable to me in my career – in particular, by the very intensive and personalized critiques provided on research and writing in most of the Arts & Science courses I took. Arts & Science was possibly the best preparation for law school available in any university undergraduate program. The critical reasoning and clean and direct writing style that was reinforced in Arts & Science gave me an advantage in my legal coursework and in my capacity as a research assistant throughout law school. And while my classmates in law school complained about the amount of reading we were required to do, it was only a fraction of what had been assigned to me in Western Thought or Literature, so law school was actually pretty easy for an Artsci grad!

After 11 years of practicing in the litigation department of one of Canada’s largest law firms, I was pleased in October of 2009 to join with my brilliant law partner, John Koch, in opening our own boutique litigation practice, Koch Thornton LLP, at 360 Bay Street in Toronto. I recently had the privilege to argue before the Supreme Court of Canada on behalf of the Canadian Civil Liberties Association in the Opitz case, the first challenge ever brought under the Canada Elections Act to be heard by the Court.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

The Arts & Science Programme is a wonderful and unique academic experience which I feel so privileged to have enjoyed. The degree of contact with professors is unparalleled, and the mental challenges are rigorous and character-building. The people I met in Arts & Science – both faculty and students – are among the most brilliant and innovative people I’ve had the pleasure of encountering.

What Artsci means to Allison

Arts & Science was a wonderful experience in so many different ways. I made life-long friends, learned to think in new ways, and developed skills which have been invaluable to me in my career – in particular, by the very intensive and personalized critiques provided on research and writing in most of the Arts & Science courses I took. Arts & Science was possibly the best preparation for law school available in any university undergraduate program. The critical reasoning and clean and direct writing style that was reinforced in Arts & Science gave me an advantage in my legal coursework and in my capacity as a research assistant throughout law school. And while my classmates in law school complained about the amount of reading we were required to do, it was only a fraction of what had been assigned to me in Western Thought or Literature, so law school was actually pretty easy for an Artsci grad!

After 11 years of practicing in the litigation department of one of Canada’s largest law firms, I was pleased in October of 2009 to join with my brilliant law partner, John Koch, in opening our own boutique litigation practice, Koch Thornton LLP, at 360 Bay Street in Toronto. I recently had the privilege to argue before the Supreme Court of Canada on behalf of the Canadian Civil Liberties Association in the Opitz case, the first challenge ever brought under the Canada Elections Act to be heard by the Court.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

The Arts & Science Programme is a wonderful and unique academic experience which I feel so privileged to have enjoyed. The degree of contact with professors is unparalleled, and the mental challenges are rigorous and character-building. The people I met in Arts & Science – both faculty and students – are among the most brilliant and innovative people I’ve had the pleasure of encountering.

What Artsci means to Anand

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science provided me with skills to think critically, ask good questions, express my ideas effectively, and embrace lifelong learning. These have been instrumental in my personal and professional development. The small size of the program allowed interaction with professors and peers from diverse backgrounds that gave me broad perspective on a wide range of ideas.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I completed an MD and became interested in a career in academic surgery. I went on to residency training in General Surgery, during which I also completed a PhD in Molecular/Cellular Biology. I developed an interest in transplantation, and went on to complete fellowship training in Hepatobiliary Surgery and Abdominal Organ Transplantation. I was subsequently appointed at the University of Toronto as a surgeon-scientist. My clinical practice, at Toronto General Hospital and The Hospital for Sick Children, is focused on liver and kidney transplantation, and I do basic/translational research on the pathobiology of liver disease.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Enjoy the time in Arts & Science! There are few other opportunities like it. Investing time in learning how to think, learn, and communicate will yield great dividends in whatever direction you go afterwards.

What Artsci means to Anand

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science provided me with skills to think critically, ask good questions, express my ideas effectively, and embrace lifelong learning. These have been instrumental in my personal and professional development. The small size of the program allowed interaction with professors and peers from diverse backgrounds that gave me broad perspective on a wide range of ideas.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I completed an MD and became interested in a career in academic surgery. I went on to residency training in General Surgery, during which I also completed a PhD in Molecular/Cellular Biology. I developed an interest in transplantation, and went on to complete fellowship training in Hepatobiliary Surgery and Abdominal Organ Transplantation. I was subsequently appointed at the University of Toronto as a surgeon-scientist. My clinical practice, at Toronto General Hospital and The Hospital for Sick Children, is focused on liver and kidney transplantation, and I do basic/translational research on the pathobiology of liver disease.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Enjoy the time in Arts & Science! There are few other opportunities like it. Investing time in learning how to think, learn, and communicate will yield great dividends in whatever direction you go afterwards.

More about Megan

I am an historical archaeologist, and currently a PhD Candidate in the Department of Anthropology at the University of Maryland, College Park. My dissertation explores the making of the modern American woman in the early 20th century through the lens of a women’s retreat for working women in the Adirondack Mountains of New York State. I am also the prime consultant for the National Park Service Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) Heritage Initiative, which aims to increase the representation of LGBTQ historic sites in the National Register of Historic Places and National Historic Landmarks programs.

More about Megan

I am an historical archaeologist, and currently a PhD Candidate in the Department of Anthropology at the University of Maryland, College Park. My dissertation explores the making of the modern American woman in the early 20th century through the lens of a women’s retreat for working women in the Adirondack Mountains of New York State. I am also the prime consultant for the National Park Service Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) Heritage Initiative, which aims to increase the representation of LGBTQ historic sites in the National Register of Historic Places and National Historic Landmarks programs.

What Artsci means to Tushar

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science was an opportunity to dream about what a world could be, to live in the realm of ideas and ideals past, present, and future. At the same time, this was a program grounded in the realities of the world. How can we think critically and ask questions from multiple perspectives and disciplines? What are the real problems of the world? How do we combine compassion, meaning, and pragmatism. In this world where, increasingly, the ends justify the means, such  thinking is ever more necessary. Arts & Science was also a time to explore new frontiers with diverse people of so many backgrounds. There was joy and connection.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:

My work in medicine is informed by Arts & Science. I incorporate these philosophies with my technical knowledge when working with patients, keeping their personal and social context in mind. Since graduation I have also volunteered at a hospital in rural India, served with Sea Shepherd Conservation Society in Antarctica, and currently work with Health Education Project Haiti. I also use my skills to teach about environmental issues, and the importance of a plant-based diet for health, ecology and food security, co-founding Plant Based Data.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Enjoy this rich program and all the brilliant people. I learned as much from my friends as I did from my professors. Keep your ideals with you as the years go by.

What Artsci means to Tushar

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science was an opportunity to dream about what a world could be, to live in the realm of ideas and ideals past, present, and future. At the same time, this was a program grounded in the realities of the world. How can we think critically and ask questions from multiple perspectives and disciplines? What are the real problems of the world? How do we combine compassion, meaning, and pragmatism. In this world where, increasingly, the ends justify the means, such  thinking is ever more necessary. Arts & Science was also a time to explore new frontiers with diverse people of so many backgrounds. There was joy and connection.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:

My work in medicine is informed by Arts & Science. I incorporate these philosophies with my technical knowledge when working with patients, keeping their personal and social context in mind. Since graduation I have also volunteered at a hospital in rural India, served with Sea Shepherd Conservation Society in Antarctica, and currently work with Health Education Project Haiti. I also use my skills to teach about environmental issues, and the importance of a plant-based diet for health, ecology and food security, co-founding Plant Based Data.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Enjoy this rich program and all the brilliant people. I learned as much from my friends as I did from my professors. Keep your ideals with you as the years go by.

What Artsci means to Nadia

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science was formative for me. Academically and intellectually, it taught me to think and write better, and stimulated me in ways that non Artsci courses did not. It also opened up new worlds of possibility — I learned so much about the world, especially through the Inquiries. The social aspect of it was also transformative — to go through undergrad in a small, close-knit program gave me confidence and helped me grow into myself. My friendships from Artsci are still among my strongest and closest. Overall, I flourished in Artsci in so many ways, even if I didn’t see it that way at the time, amid the stress and anxiety of Inquiry papers, Calculus and, oh that Stats class…

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I went straight on to do my MA in International Development Studies at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax. I fell in love with Halifax and lived there for almost 10 years. I did a variety of part-time and contract work along with an internship with UNIFEM in Fiji for 8 months and a stint living in Milan and teaching English. In 2003, I moved to Ottawa to join the Foreign Service (after applying unsuccessfully three other times in the previous ten years). From 2005 to 2008 I was posted to Canada’s Permanent Mission to the UN in Geneva for three years, working on human rights and HIV/AIDS issues. In Ottawa, I’ve worked on international environment issues, the Arctic, Africa (both Sudan and the Horn of Africa countries) and consular case management. In 2015, I became a trailing spouse and joined my partner on postings in Delhi (3 years) and now Dakar, Senegal. I have been enjoying my “sabbatical” and keeping busy with volunteer, writing, and artistic pursuits.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Enjoy your time in Arts & Science. It’s a special place and you probably won’t experience anything like it again. Try to find a balance between studying and life. I learned as much outside of the classroom as I did in it – your fellow Artscis are all amazing people and you have much to learn from each other. Try as many new things as possible. during your time at Mac. Take risks. Remember that life doesn’t necessarily follow the plans you are making right now. There will be twists and turns, some of them very unexpected, and yes, failures. Or, at least, they may feel like failures at the time. But when you look back on them, you’ll see that they were necessary steps on the path to something bigger and better. Strength and courage!

What Artsci means to Nadia

What Arts & Science means to me:
Arts & Science was formative for me. Academically and intellectually, it taught me to think and write better, and stimulated me in ways that non Artsci courses did not. It also opened up new worlds of possibility — I learned so much about the world, especially through the Inquiries. The social aspect of it was also transformative — to go through undergrad in a small, close-knit program gave me confidence and helped me grow into myself. My friendships from Artsci are still among my strongest and closest. Overall, I flourished in Artsci in so many ways, even if I didn’t see it that way at the time, amid the stress and anxiety of Inquiry papers, Calculus and, oh that Stats class…

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
I went straight on to do my MA in International Development Studies at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax. I fell in love with Halifax and lived there for almost 10 years. I did a variety of part-time and contract work along with an internship with UNIFEM in Fiji for 8 months and a stint living in Milan and teaching English. In 2003, I moved to Ottawa to join the Foreign Service (after applying unsuccessfully three other times in the previous ten years). From 2005 to 2008 I was posted to Canada’s Permanent Mission to the UN in Geneva for three years, working on human rights and HIV/AIDS issues. In Ottawa, I’ve worked on international environment issues, the Arctic, Africa (both Sudan and the Horn of Africa countries) and consular case management. In 2015, I became a trailing spouse and joined my partner on postings in Delhi (3 years) and now Dakar, Senegal. I have been enjoying my “sabbatical” and keeping busy with volunteer, writing, and artistic pursuits.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Enjoy your time in Arts & Science. It’s a special place and you probably won’t experience anything like it again. Try to find a balance between studying and life. I learned as much outside of the classroom as I did in it – your fellow Artscis are all amazing people and you have much to learn from each other. Try as many new things as possible. during your time at Mac. Take risks. Remember that life doesn’t necessarily follow the plans you are making right now. There will be twists and turns, some of them very unexpected, and yes, failures. Or, at least, they may feel like failures at the time. But when you look back on them, you’ll see that they were necessary steps on the path to something bigger and better. Strength and courage!

What Artsci means to Sanjeev

Although I graduated years ago, I recall vividly the inquiry courses. I think the focus on critical thinking, the emphasis on seeking out answers and being self-motivated were the best parts of the program. After I graduated with my four-year Artsci degree, I went to law school and earned LLB and LLM degrees and worked for the federal government in Ottawa for 14 years, most of that time specializing in international tax law. I eventually left that path to become a full-time visual artist, with a passion for the night sky. In 2014, I combined my artist studio with gallery space and launched Sivarulrasa Studio & Gallery in Almonte, a small town west of Ottawa. The people in Almonte are very enlightened, energized, and full of empathy. That’s how I remember the people I met in Arts & Science – they brought out the best in me.

What Artsci means to Sanjeev

Although I graduated years ago, I recall vividly the inquiry courses. I think the focus on critical thinking, the emphasis on seeking out answers and being self-motivated were the best parts of the program. After I graduated with my four-year Artsci degree, I went to law school and earned LLB and LLM degrees and worked for the federal government in Ottawa for 14 years, most of that time specializing in international tax law. I eventually left that path to become a full-time visual artist, with a passion for the night sky. In 2014, I combined my artist studio with gallery space and launched Sivarulrasa Studio & Gallery in Almonte, a small town west of Ottawa. The people in Almonte are very enlightened, energized, and full of empathy. That’s how I remember the people I met in Arts & Science – they brought out the best in me.

What Artsci means to Caroline

I think Peter Wyngaarden made a good point recently in the Alumni Experience 3CU3 class that an Artsci education “allows you to find some common ground/something to talk about with anyone, from any background.” This is especially helpful in my career as a psychotherapist. Also, the friends I made in Artsci are among my longest-standing and, let’s face it, most interesting friends in my life.

At first, my Arts & Science education did not seem directly related to my medical school experience (or vice versa). So I sought out like-minded people in a related History of Medicine club. Our professor/leader was an MD who went on to get a Phd in Classics, specifically Hippocratic Medicine. My knowledge of Greek Philosophy and other aspects of Western Thought were very helpful in understanding the development of Western Medicine. I suppose one reason I chose Psychiatry as my specialty was that I could apply my interest in humanities and philosophy to my work. This is still difficult to do in the current biomedical climate, but I try to be an overall clinician/thinker instead of just a “brain technician.”

While in Artsci, I lived off-campus (i.e. at home), but I never felt that I was missing out, despite never having had the residence-life experience. In fact, living at home forced me to spend a lot of time in the C105 Library between classes, where I a) got to know a lot of other students who frequently “passed through” to use the computer and b) really bonded with a few other “homebodies.” I’ve kept up with several of these Artsci students. In fact, we formed a very early e-mail group in the early 1990’s called “The Fishbowl,” which has recently been usurped by Facebook. We try to meet every year around Christmas time. Over the past 20 years we’ve shared in each other’s major life events, such as weddings, births and (unfortunately) deaths.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Enjoy your Arts & Science experience. I know you have to get all your ducks lined up to “get a job/career,” but don’t let worrying about the future detract from your appreciation of the present. Some of the things you learn and the friends you make in Artsci will last a lifetime!

What Artsci means to Caroline

I think Peter Wyngaarden made a good point recently in the Alumni Experience 3CU3 class that an Artsci education “allows you to find some common ground/something to talk about with anyone, from any background.” This is especially helpful in my career as a psychotherapist. Also, the friends I made in Artsci are among my longest-standing and, let’s face it, most interesting friends in my life.

At first, my Arts & Science education did not seem directly related to my medical school experience (or vice versa). So I sought out like-minded people in a related History of Medicine club. Our professor/leader was an MD who went on to get a Phd in Classics, specifically Hippocratic Medicine. My knowledge of Greek Philosophy and other aspects of Western Thought were very helpful in understanding the development of Western Medicine. I suppose one reason I chose Psychiatry as my specialty was that I could apply my interest in humanities and philosophy to my work. This is still difficult to do in the current biomedical climate, but I try to be an overall clinician/thinker instead of just a “brain technician.”

While in Artsci, I lived off-campus (i.e. at home), but I never felt that I was missing out, despite never having had the residence-life experience. In fact, living at home forced me to spend a lot of time in the C105 Library between classes, where I a) got to know a lot of other students who frequently “passed through” to use the computer and b) really bonded with a few other “homebodies.” I’ve kept up with several of these Artsci students. In fact, we formed a very early e-mail group in the early 1990’s called “The Fishbowl,” which has recently been usurped by Facebook. We try to meet every year around Christmas time. Over the past 20 years we’ve shared in each other’s major life events, such as weddings, births and (unfortunately) deaths.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Enjoy your Arts & Science experience. I know you have to get all your ducks lined up to “get a job/career,” but don’t let worrying about the future detract from your appreciation of the present. Some of the things you learn and the friends you make in Artsci will last a lifetime!

What Artsci means to Rob

The Arts & Science program provided me with critical thinking skills from a variety of perspectives. While I am an economist, I also catch glimpses of the beauty of the world through the lenses of math, physics, biology, literature, philosophy, engineering, music, and the list goes on. Arts & Science taught me to academically value the input of others much more than I otherwise might have and that has gone a long way to helping me propose solutions to the big issues of today. My experience in Arts & Science and the fact that I met my thesis-supervisor-to-be in Economics led me down an interdisciplinary approach to economics so that now my key research area is experimental and behavioural economics. In addition to my professional duties, I am a strong community activist and a 3-time federal candidate (I may go back for another round or two).

Through Arts & Science and my work in Economics, I have been around the world – across Canada and the US, through parts of Europe, to the North and to China. I’ve met people from all walks of life and from many countries and I’ve learned that I will never stop learning.

His message to current and future Arts & Science students:

You can make a difference if you start by caring for others.

What Artsci means to Rob

The Arts & Science program provided me with critical thinking skills from a variety of perspectives. While I am an economist, I also catch glimpses of the beauty of the world through the lenses of math, physics, biology, literature, philosophy, engineering, music, and the list goes on. Arts & Science taught me to academically value the input of others much more than I otherwise might have and that has gone a long way to helping me propose solutions to the big issues of today. My experience in Arts & Science and the fact that I met my thesis-supervisor-to-be in Economics led me down an interdisciplinary approach to economics so that now my key research area is experimental and behavioural economics. In addition to my professional duties, I am a strong community activist and a 3-time federal candidate (I may go back for another round or two).

Through Arts & Science and my work in Economics, I have been around the world – across Canada and the US, through parts of Europe, to the North and to China. I’ve met people from all walks of life and from many countries and I’ve learned that I will never stop learning.

His message to current and future Arts & Science students:

You can make a difference if you start by caring for others.

What Artsci means to Mary-Beth

Arts & Science provided an intense cohort experience and opportunities to interact with professors in and out of the classroom. For me, the sense that my contributions were seen and valued by my peers and profs created the ideal conditions for learning.

As a university professor now, I have come to appreciate the high quality of instruction I received in Arts & Science. At my university I advocate for small classes, interdisciplinary courses and programs, opportunities for informal learning, and service-learning. My teaching directly addresses ethico-political concerns for social justice. I cannot replicate the Arts & Science model, but I try to pass on to my students and institution many of the benefit s of my undergraduate experience in Arts & Science.

What Artsci means to Mary-Beth

Arts & Science provided an intense cohort experience and opportunities to interact with professors in and out of the classroom. For me, the sense that my contributions were seen and valued by my peers and profs created the ideal conditions for learning.

As a university professor now, I have come to appreciate the high quality of instruction I received in Arts & Science. At my university I advocate for small classes, interdisciplinary courses and programs, opportunities for informal learning, and service-learning. My teaching directly addresses ethico-political concerns for social justice. I cannot replicate the Arts & Science model, but I try to pass on to my students and institution many of the benefit s of my undergraduate experience in Arts & Science.

What Artsci means to Farzana

What Arts & Science means to me:
What she remembers most from her years at Mac was the formation of her social justice framework; her first activist effort was to co-found the McMaster Anti-Apartheid Committee. Farzana fondly recollects the small Arts & Science program that encouraged students to think deeply about the world. What she learned about her power to speak up and act still echoes in her novels today.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:

Farzana Doctor is the Toronto-based author of four novels: Stealing Nasreen, Six Metres of Pavement (which won a 2012 Lambda Literary Award and was short-listed for the 2012 Toronto Book Award and was the One Book One Brampton 2017 winner), All Inclusive, a Kobo and National Post Best Book of the Year. Seven will be released in summer 2020. She is also an activist, part-time psychotherapist and amateur tarot card reader and so social justice, psychology and a hint of magical realism weave their way into her strong characters and stories. Farzana was recently named one of CBC Books’ “100 Writers in Canada You Need To Know Now”. She volunteers with WeSpeakOut, a group that is working to ban female genital cutting in her Dawoodi Bohra community. farzanadoctor.com

What Artsci means to Farzana

What Arts & Science means to me:
What she remembers most from her years at Mac was the formation of her social justice framework; her first activist effort was to co-found the McMaster Anti-Apartheid Committee. Farzana fondly recollects the small Arts & Science program that encouraged students to think deeply about the world. What she learned about her power to speak up and act still echoes in her novels today.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:

Farzana Doctor is the Toronto-based author of four novels: Stealing Nasreen, Six Metres of Pavement (which won a 2012 Lambda Literary Award and was short-listed for the 2012 Toronto Book Award and was the One Book One Brampton 2017 winner), All Inclusive, a Kobo and National Post Best Book of the Year. Seven will be released in summer 2020. She is also an activist, part-time psychotherapist and amateur tarot card reader and so social justice, psychology and a hint of magical realism weave their way into her strong characters and stories. Farzana was recently named one of CBC Books’ “100 Writers in Canada You Need To Know Now”. She volunteers with WeSpeakOut, a group that is working to ban female genital cutting in her Dawoodi Bohra community. farzanadoctor.com

What Artsci means to Anne

I feel so lucky to have graduated from the Arts & Science Program! I loved our small class, getting to know people very well and being part of a great learning community, and having my profs know me personally. I feel that I received a great education. Our profs were really dedicated and the depth and breadth of our courses gave me a strong intellectual foundation.

As a teacher, I know that I am very well-versed in so many subject areas because of my ArtSci education. I have a solid knowledge of math, science, literature, world events… all things I need in my classroom. I also have strong presentation skills because we practised these in each class as well. As well, my interest in social justice, world affairs and politics was really respected and nurtured in Artsci by Dr. Jenkins, Dr. Ferrier, Dr. Kubursi and so many other teachers!

Since graduating, I have become a teacher and recently finished my M.Ed. at York University. I currently teach a gifted area class for kids in grades 4-8, which I love… reminds me a bit of Artsci! I have had the opportunity to work with the Canadian Teachers’ Federation training teachers in Liberia and Uganda.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Enjoy the ride!! It’s tons of work but worth every ‘all-nighter’!

What Artsci means to Anne

I feel so lucky to have graduated from the Arts & Science Program! I loved our small class, getting to know people very well and being part of a great learning community, and having my profs know me personally. I feel that I received a great education. Our profs were really dedicated and the depth and breadth of our courses gave me a strong intellectual foundation.

As a teacher, I know that I am very well-versed in so many subject areas because of my ArtSci education. I have a solid knowledge of math, science, literature, world events… all things I need in my classroom. I also have strong presentation skills because we practised these in each class as well. As well, my interest in social justice, world affairs and politics was really respected and nurtured in Artsci by Dr. Jenkins, Dr. Ferrier, Dr. Kubursi and so many other teachers!

Since graduating, I have become a teacher and recently finished my M.Ed. at York University. I currently teach a gifted area class for kids in grades 4-8, which I love… reminds me a bit of Artsci! I have had the opportunity to work with the Canadian Teachers’ Federation training teachers in Liberia and Uganda.

Her message to current and future Arts & Science students:

Enjoy the ride!! It’s tons of work but worth every ‘all-nighter’!

What Artsci means to Bruce

What Arts & Science means to me:
Although I went on to get an MBA, the most important things that I learned about business actually came from being an Artsci student. You want your undergraduate degree to set you up for lifelong learning, and my Arts & Science degree definitely accomplished that.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
One of the Program’s first graduates and later a graduate of the Ivey School of Business with an MBA in 1988, I began my business career as an analyst with IBM Canada, joining the group writing technical and user manuals for software. I was a consultant with McKinsey & Company and then the Director of Strategic Initiatives for Bombardier Inc. I was then the Vice-President of Six Sigma with Maple Leaf Foods Inc., where I led the company’s performance improvement initiatives for more than a decade. I also served in an executive role with BMO Financial Group, where I built the organization’s Process Centre of Excellence. Today, I divide my time between Miyashita Advisory and the Tom & Nancy Miyashita Foundation.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Difficult as it may be, don’t put any more pressure on yourself to get everything perfect. It’s okay to ‘fail’ or change course. Life doesn’t unfold in a single linear, upward path. Don’t drive yourself crazy thinking about what could have been or comparing yourself to others.

What Artsci means to Bruce

What Arts & Science means to me:
Although I went on to get an MBA, the most important things that I learned about business actually came from being an Artsci student. You want your undergraduate degree to set you up for lifelong learning, and my Arts & Science degree definitely accomplished that.

How my career path has developed since I graduated from the Arts & Science Program:
One of the Program’s first graduates and later a graduate of the Ivey School of Business with an MBA in 1988, I began my business career as an analyst with IBM Canada, joining the group writing technical and user manuals for software. I was a consultant with McKinsey & Company and then the Director of Strategic Initiatives for Bombardier Inc. I was then the Vice-President of Six Sigma with Maple Leaf Foods Inc., where I led the company’s performance improvement initiatives for more than a decade. I also served in an executive role with BMO Financial Group, where I built the organization’s Process Centre of Excellence. Today, I divide my time between Miyashita Advisory and the Tom & Nancy Miyashita Foundation.

My message to future and current Arts & Science students:
Difficult as it may be, don’t put any more pressure on yourself to get everything perfect. It’s okay to ‘fail’ or change course. Life doesn’t unfold in a single linear, upward path. Don’t drive yourself crazy thinking about what could have been or comparing yourself to others.