Tina Kim- B.Sc. Anatomy and Cell Biology
Tina Kim, former Co-President of MANABA, speaks about her current endeavours, her experience with Anatomy and Cell Biology at McGill and shares some advice for those who feel lost at sea.
Tell us about what you (have) studied at McGill.
I graduated from McGill with a Bachelor of Science in Anatomy and Cell Biology and a minor in Women’s Studies (now called Gender, Sexuality, Feminist, and Social Justice Studies).
Interviewer’s note: for more information regarding the programs mentioned above, please refer to https://www.mcgill.ca/anatomy/undergraduate-bsc and http://www.mcgill.ca/igsf/programs/gsfs respectively.
What have you been doing after your graduation?
I graduated in June 2016 and spent a year abroad working in rural Korea and traveling around Asia. Currently, I am in my first year of medicine at Dalhousie University.
What are some pros and cons about your program?
The Faculty of Science offers major, honours or liberal programs. I chose the liberal program, an option with more breadth that allows students to combine a science major with a minor or major from the Faculty of Arts.
PROS: This is the program for you if you do not want to overly specialise. It is flexible, interdisciplinary, and allows you to approach your education more liberally.
CONS: Compared to a major program, the liberal program offers a smaller selection in complementary courses… but if there is a course you are interested in taking that is not listed under the program, don’t be afraid to consult with an adviser! Often times, it is possible to incorporate an equivalent course into your degree.
What were some valuable involvements at school that taught about yourself and oriented your goals?
Serving as one of the Co-Presidents of MANABA during my third year was a truly valuable part of my McGill experience. I gained insight into various leadership styles, including my own. I discovered weaknesses in my leadership, notably my lack of authority and ability to delegate, and addressed these shortcomings to develop my own new and improved leadership style. Aside from this, I had an amazing time organizing events, meeting so many wonderful friends and mentors, and being a part MANABA.
What advice would you give to younglings at McGill? Or if you were to go back to your first year, what would you have done differently?
McGill, and university in general, can be extremely overwhelming. It is very easy to get lost in the crowd.
When you are lost, my advice would be to always ask for help or guidance.
McGill is a huge institution, and it might seem that it lacks the systems of support and mentorship that students need. Most of the time, the help is there, but you need to actively search for the right people and services.
Is there anything else you want to add on?
Time flies!! Before you know it, you’ll be in a gown at a graduation ceremony with thousands of other students. Make the most of your time there, be with people who will challenge you, but most importantly, never forget to be grateful for this incredible and privileged opportunity to educate yourself :)
