Student Testimonial - Amrita Bartaula

Name: Amrita Bartaula
Program: Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences
What semester are you in: 3rd Year, Semester 2

Why did you choose Humber College? and/or this program?

Currently, I am in my third year of the Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences at Humber College. I made the choice based on my love for sciences and experiments. I completed the two-year diploma in Biotechnology at Humber. I wanted to further my education and there is a pathway offered from the Biotechnology program to jump into the third year of the Biomedical Sciences degree program, and that’s what I did. The Biomedical Sciences program at Humber offers an interdisciplinary approach, integrating knowledge from biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and much more. The college's reputation for practical learning and the unique offerings of the Biomedical Sciences program were key factors in my decision to choose Humber College. The emphasis on interprofessional collaboration and hands-on experience, including a summer field experience, aligns perfectly with my career goals of contributing to innovative approaches in medicine and human health.

Did you attend an Open House at Humber College or an Information Session? How was it helpful?

Yes, I attended an Open House at Humber College, and it provided me with invaluable insights about the program, and extracurricular activities. I learned about numerous extracurricular activities, specifically Interprofessional Education (IPE) Wednesdays. These interactive and collaborative workshops have helped prepare me for future collaboration with professionals from various health and wellness fields such as Pharmacy Technician, Nursing, Dietitian, and Health and Wellness Coaches. Additionally, the Open House allowed me to connect with instructors, current students, and faculty, gaining a deeper understanding of the program, campus, and culture.

What has your experience been like so far at Humber College? Within your program? The faculty? The labs? Student life?

The newly established Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences program has been a rewarding academic experience for me so far. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed, providing a balance between theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical experience in building laboratory skills and knowledge. The 3rd-year experience, particularly the 1st semester, has involved managing multiple assignments and presentations, fostering time management and organizational skills. The emphasis on presentations has significantly improved my communication abilities, a crucial aspect in the biomedical field. This program has been challenging for me yet manageable. I would recommend future students stay on top of assignments, especially with numerous presentations going on in the third year's first semester. At the same time, the faculty has been exceptional. All professors are super supportive, and I've found that asking for help is a key to success. The labs at Humber College are practical, with a unique and beneficial cadaver lab experience contributing to my understanding of biomedical sciences and human anatomy and physiology. I would like to suggest future students besides academic study, actively participate in extracurricular activities, particularly the First Year Experience (FYE) program, which has been transformative to me. Serving as a Senior Peer Mentor, Peer Mentor, and Mentee in the FYE program has provided me with invaluable experiences, including fostering connections between students and mentors through planning and attending events.

What is your favorite memory so far in the program? or favorite class?

My favourite class has been Communications for Biomedical Sciences last semester, featuring engaging class discussions and collaborative in-class activities with students from the Bachelor of Health Sciences – Workplace Health and Wellness program. Ethical and Legal Issues in Biomedical Sciences is another favourite class due to its stimulating debates and in-class discussions about morality and decision-making in specific situations related to biomedical advancements. It's a class that encourages reflection on the societal implications of biomedical innovations and equips us with the ethical frameworks needed to comprehend these complexities. This has been a transformative experience, enhancing my ethical reasoning, critical thinking, and decision-making skills as I progress in my studies.

Have you had a Work-Integrated Learning experience yet? (otherwise known as a field placement, an internship, a practicum). What was your biggest take-away from that?

While I haven't had a formal Work-Integrated Learning experience yet, I had a previous role as a Lab Technician that provided hands-on experience. Working in the environmental and food department involving tasks such as weighing soil and food samples, following safety protocols, adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), following Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs), and using the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). All of which helped my understanding of the comprehensive workflow within a laboratory setting. My biggest takeaway from this experience was how to manage time effectively and deliver accurate results within specified timeframes.

Looking back, what advice would you give to your first-year self?

I would make friends, network, connect, and ask for help from peers or professors as much as possible at the beginning of the year/semester. I would also join extracurricular activities as a first-year student such as the First-Year Experience program (FYE) at Humber College to build a strong resume and cover letter as well as to build a network, gain confidence, improve communication skills, and meet new people. I would stay on top of everything in terms of assignments, revise notes frequently, and avoid procrastination. Also, I would seek help from peers or professors because it is crucial to ask for help when faced with challenges rather than keeping to ourselves. If future students consider a career in biomedical sciences, I will prioritize gaining hands-on laboratory experience and strengthen my communication skills and collaboration skills in this highly specialized and collaborative field from early on. I would also apply for scholarships early in the semester. Lastly, I would advise maintaining an agenda, setting daily or weekly goals, and meeting daily deadlines for effective time management to succeed in this program. We Got You, Humber Hawks!