As part of our Spring Convocation 2024 coverage, we asked graduates from our six Schools to share their experiences of completing a degree in McGill’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Here, we meet Class of 2024 member Vicky Wang, from the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics in the School of Biomedical Sciences. Vicky completed her PhD in Pharmacology: Environmental Health Sciences and receives her degree at the Spring Convocation Ceremony on May 28. Congratulations Vicky!
Name: Vicky Wang
Degree: Doctor of Philosophy in Pharmacology: Environmental Health Sciences
Hometown: Macau SAR, China
What did you love most about studying at McGill and in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences?
The students and staff who have created a friendly and supportive study environment.
How will your choice of degree or your research project have a positive impact on society?
Endocrine active chemicals are ubiquitous in the environment. We developed a high-content toxicity screening strategy that is applicable to any perturbation. I believe in vitro models and high-throughput assays will be valuable tools for the rapid screening and prioritization of emerging chemicals in risk assessment.
If you could change one thing in the world to make it better, what would you choose?
Everyone has access to a clean and healthy environment.
Could you share a particularly proud moment from your degree?
I think a proud moment from my degree was receiving a round of applause after my oral defence. It was grateful to see my efforts recognized by my peers and professors.
A song that defines the past few years as a student at McGill?
“Put Your Records On” by Corinne Bailey Rae. I like the lyrics, “You’re gonna find yourself somewhere, somehow.”
Any shoutouts?
The “Coronials” (members of Prof. Bernard Robaire and Prof. Barbara Hales’s labs)!
Top tip for incoming students in your program?
The journey ahead is filled with challenges, but also opportunities and fun. Just stay healthy, positive and focused on your goals.
Anything you’ll miss?
My supervisors, lab colleagues and friends whom I made during my studies here in Montreal. I will probably miss the daily climb to the McIntyre Medical Building.
What’s next for you?
I will take a break to enjoy the summer, travel and spend quality time with my friends and family.