“I was not sure about what I wanted to specialize in, but the versatility of the Gateway program allowed me to pick a major once I was more aware of what I want to pursue.”

I liked that McMaster gave me a lot of flexibility in terms of the courses I selected in first year. I was not sure about what I wanted to specialize in, but the versatility of the Gateway program allowed me to pick a major once I was more aware of what I want to pursue.

I am currently pursuing Honours Chemical Biology. I initially came in with the idea of pursuing Biochemistry as it was the ‘parent/counsellor approved’ choice. After first year I knew that I enjoyed Chemistry and Math a lot more than Biology. I also knew that I still wanted something that was connected to medicine and healthcare, so Chemical Biology seemed perfect for me.

“One of my favorite things about this program is how interesting and immersive the labs are.”

My name is Kristen and I am in my fourth year of the Honours Earth and Environmental Science (Co-op) program. I am currently working on a thesis project with a geochemical focus and I am a Teaching Assistant for a first-year geology course (EARTHSC 1G03). I recently finished an 8-month Co-op term with Environment and Climate Change Canada, where I worked with the Pollutant Inventories and Reporting Division, Industry Team.

What drew me to McMaster’s Faculty of Science was how diverse and flexible it was. I came into the faculty as a Life Science Gateway student, unsure of exactly what I wanted to do for my degree. In second year, I moved into the Honours Earth and Environmental Science program. I have always been passionate about the environment and sustainability, and I really enjoyed the first-year earth and environmental science classes, so this seemed like a good fit for me!

In the Honours Earth and Environmental Science program, you are exposed to a wide variety of different subjects, such as hydrology, geology, geochemistry, soil science and more! One of my favorite things about this program is how interesting and immersive the labs are. From soil properties testing, to chemical separation and analysis techniques, to rock and mineral identification, I feel that I’ve gained a variety of practical skills. Through taking so many different courses, talking to professors about their research or working experiences, and trying different jobs through the Co-op program, I realized how many options there are for post-graduate studies and possible career paths.

I would advise students interested in a Faculty of Science program to take courses that interest them, and not to be anxious if they are unsure of what they want to do. First year is a great time to try new things, explore different subject areas and discover a path that you want to take. Don’t be afraid to ask your instructors questions, or to have a conversation with them about the subject they teach, their research, or additional opportunities they might have available. This is a great way to network!

Wishing you a great experience at McMaster! I hope you find the right program for you.-