Guelph Grad Q&A: Laurel McGillis

Bio-Med Builds Foundation for PhD and Med School 

Laurel McGillis graduated from the University of Guelph in 2016 with a BSc in Bio-Medical Science and a minor in Nutrition & Nutraceutical Sciences. With aspirations to have a career in medicine, Laurel would first be drawn to the Bio-Med program as it aligned perfectly with her interests and future goals. But like many others, it was her first campus tour that truly sealed the deal.  

Thanks to the support of the University of Guelph’s professors, research supervisors, and academic advisors, Laurel would excel in her undergraduate studies. After graduating Laurel would go on to earn a PhD in Medical Science at the University of Toronto and just finished medical school this year at Western University.

Continue reading to learn more about Laurel’s academic journey and discover which course she feels was pivotal to her future success.

Interview with Laurel McGillis

Tell us about yourself and why you chose to study Bio-Medical Science at the University of Guelph?

My name is Laurel and I’m a proud Guelph grad! I graduated in 2016 with a BSc in Bio-Medical Science and a minor in Nutrition & Nutraceutical Sciences. After my time at Guelph, I went on to do a PhD in Medical Science at the University of Toronto and recently graduated from the MD program at Western University.

When I reflect back on why I chose Guelph for my undergraduate studies, it was the Bio-Medical Science program specifically that drew me in. I remember looking at the courses offered and feeling a sense of excitement knowing they completely aligned with my interests and future goals. However, it was when I toured campus that I knew Guelph was the right choice for me. I instantly felt at home, and that’s a feeling that stuck with me during my time as a Gryphon. 

What did you like most about your program? Is there anything in particular about the courses or professors that stands out to you?

I loved the selection of courses, especially in my 3rd and 4th years. With the combination of my Bio-Medical Science major and Nutrition & Nutraceutical Sciences minor, I remember being so excited about every one of my classes. This translated into me excelling in them which set me up for success in the future. 

The professors, research supervisors, and academic advisors I connected with during my time at Guelph were instrumental in helping me navigate my path after undergrad. Their guidance and support helped me to refine my goals and gave me the confidence to continue on to grad school and med school, and I’m extremely grateful to them! 

Where are you currently working and what is your role?

I recently finished up medical school at Western University and am excited to be starting family medicine residency this July!

How did your degree and time at the University of Guelph help get you to where you are today? How do the skills and education you gained help with your current work?

The Bio-Medical Science program at Guelph provided me with a quality education and allowed me to develop a solid foundation of knowledge that set me up for success during my PhD and in medical school. 

A pivotal experience was taking the full-year Research in Biomedical Science thesis course. This was my first exposure to a lab environment and gave me an opportunity to immerse myself into the scientific process and develop my critical thinking skills. It ultimately made me realize my passion for research which led me to pursue a PhD in the same field I studied as an undergraduate researcher! 

The Human Anatomy cadaver lab was another memorable and valuable experience. It’s not something that is offered at many undergraduate institutions, and as much as I dislike the smell of formaldehyde, the course allowed me to gain a greater understanding of the human body and provided me with a knowledge base that has been highly useful during my medical studies. 

What advice would you give someone considering the Bio-Medical Science program or applying to the University of Guelph?

If you think you might be interested in Guelph, you should set up a campus tour to get a feel for the atmosphere and the people—it’s what sealed the deal for me. Pros and cons lists are always helpful in making big decisions, and if you can, connect with someone who is in the program or has completed it to chat with them about their experience! 

I may be biased, but I think Bio-Med at Guelph is an excellent choice.  

Bonus Questions

Where was your favourite place to eat on campus and what was your go-to food order?

A bowl at the Mongolian BBQ at Prairie Dining Hall in South was definitely a staple in my first year. 

In your opinion where is the best place to study on campus?

As a member of the women's varsity lacrosse team, I loved studying on the 3rd floor of the library with the Student-Athlete Mentorship program. For solo study sessions, I would opt for the 6th floor carrels. And in-between classes, my friends and I would always grab a table in the Science Atrium. 

What was your pre-exam ritual?

Trust that I was ready and dance out the nerves! 

What are your top 5 favourite things about U of G?

1. The varsity experience (I definitely recommend playing a sport at Guelph if it's within your interests)
2. The courses offered and the incredible professors
3. The beautiful campus and seeing the Cannon painted different colours each day
4. Taking walks through the Arboretum and day trips to Elora Gorge
5. The sense of community, especially during events like Homecoming