This year, the Faculty of Science talked with Dadiso Magadza. An undergraduate student in chemistry who has successfully completed her co-op program with innovative companies such as Pollard Banknote and PTI Transformers where she gained invaluable skills and in her words, got to see what the real world looks like. “The highlight of my journey has been getting hands-on experience and my co-op experience”, says Magadza. As she is nearing her graduation, she hopes the University improves students’ access to information critical to their programs and higher education journey. She hopes future students in science believe in themselves, use all the resources they have and seek help from their peers and professors.

Watch the full interview on the Faculty of Science’s YouTube channel.

1. Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey in science so far that fueled your passion for biochemistry?

I think a moment that was quite significant for me was during an organic chemistry lab where we were required to make up our own experiment to form soap! I had never made my own experiment but after some research and planning, I had come up with a procedure. To my surprise, I successfully made soap in that lab experiment and that just showed me that I had creative potential and willingness to learn more and do more in biochemistry.

2. How has working in Sabin Kuss’s lab influenced your understanding of biochemistry? Are there projects you have been working on that excite you?

Working in Sabine Kuss’s lab gave me good work experience that one would normally not see in a classroom lab setting. Working with electrodes and whole grain toxins was really interesting as well as conducting the experiments. I mastered analytical techniques in electrochemistry during my term under her guidance that I know will be beneficial in the future for my prospective field in science. Currently, I am working on an exciting project that involves the effects of shift work (overnight working) on cardiovascular health during pregnancy and the effects it has on fetus development at the St Boniface research centre.

3. In your journey so far, have you experienced any unique challenges in the Faculty of Science? How have you navigated those challenges?

From experience, my specific focus, biochemistry, went through some course schedule changes in the semester that I declared it as my major. Some of the courses I had done were not considered prerequisites anymore and credit hours had been added to my list. I spoke to the science advisor about the situation, and she assured me that the extra credit hours could be fulfilled by any electives I wanted to take. She also encouraged me to always audit my degree every semester to make sure I stay on top of all requirements.

4. What can the department, faculty or university do to remove barriers that cause those challenges or support students in those areas?

I think the department can make the students aware of any major course changes concerning their prospective degrees well in advance before entering that specific faculty. This helps the student to better plan their courses and class schedules hopefully for future semesters.

5. Being part of the scientific community, how do you actively contribute to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion within the Faculty of Science?

I’m always looking out for opportunities in information sessions, skills workshops, poster competitions grants and awards to understand more about the options available to international students in science. Knowing all this I can help the next person in need of academic assistance or at the very least refer them to the right resources in making their decisions. At the end of the day, they deserve the correct information and the right guidance for their journey in university.

1. Can you share a key moment from your journey in genetics and what sparked your interest in this field? Were there any specific experiences or classes that shaped your passion for genetics?

My interest in science was sparked from a very young age. I am a very curious person and I loved hands-on learning experiences such as science experiments. When I took my first genetics class at university, I discovered an interest in the intricacies of what sets us apart from each other. The Introduction to Human Genetics course not only deepened my understanding but also further shaped my passion for genetic diseases and exploring potential their treatments.

2. Have you faced any obstacles or unique experiences as an undergraduate student in this field? How have you navigated them?

Like many others, I faced challenges attending university online. Commencing my undergraduate journey virtually proved to be especially difficult, as I struggled to adjust to the new experience without the resources that would’ve been readily available in person. Upon transitioning back to in-person classes, I felt behind in both knowledge and experience. Fortunately, relying on my close circle for support proved helpful in navigating the new spaces. I highly recommend seeking guidance from professors or advisors, as I found their support to be incredibly beneficial.

3. How do you think the department, faculty or university could help remove these barriers and provide support?

The university has a lot of great resources; however, it may be challenging to navigate, especially for new students. I believe it would’ve helped me a lot if key resources were pointed out to me when I first started. It was always great to see them highlighted on UM Learn or incorporated into lecture slides. Additionally, I think it would be nice if your department or faculty suggested some student groups or other relevant student accounts you should stay up to date with. This could alleviate feelings of isolation and foster connections with other students in your program.

4. You are the VP for social media and marketing for the UMSU Women’s Centre and on the social media team for Black Student Empowerment Society. How do you actively contribute to fostering equity, diversity and inclusion within these roles?

In my role as UMSU Women’s Rep, I advocate and promote gender equity and inclusivity on campus through various initiatives. The Women’s Centre plan and host events that celebrate women’s achievements and contributions. We often collaborate with other student groups to create intersectional events that address the diverse experiences of women. We raise awareness about gendered based issues through campaigns and discussion sessions. On the black empowerment society, the social media team aims to use our platforms to highlight the diverse narratives of our community. We share resources and events that promote understanding and appreciation of diverse Black cultures.

5. How do your studies intersect with and complement your advocacy and leadership roles?

While advancing in my studies, I’ve noticed that there’s a lack of representation of Black Women within the field of genetics. Promoting diversity and inclusion goes beyond my official roles, my passion for advocacy extends into the science community as well. I believe that representation of individuals from diverse backgrounds in both health care and research ensures that studies do not overlook marginalized communities.

Watch the full interview on the Faculty of Science’s YouTube channel.