“I always knew I wanted to go to a smaller university for easier access to professors and to develop professional relationships. Trent allowed me to combine all of my interests without sacrificing any.”

Sydney Forbes is graduating from Trent this spring with a degree in Biology and Forensic Science, with a specialization in Health Sciences and is ready for her next chapter – medical school at Dalhousie University.

Getting involved on campus

Sydney was heavily involved in on-campus activities during her time at Trent, working as a tour guide, an Alumni House steward and as an intern for Alumni Engagement and Services. She was also a member of the Trent Forensic Science Society, the Biology Undergraduate Society, and Trent Relay for Life. It is opportunities like this to get involved beyond the classroom that Sydney cherishes from her time at Trent.

“Being involved in so many clubs and groups, and one outside of academics, has really opened up my perspective and helped me gain connections with other students,” said Sydney. “Being involved at such a high level really made my experience at Trent great because I felt like I was making the Trent experience great for others.”

Creating connections

Coming from a small town on the coast of British Columbia, it was important for Sydney to attend a university that was the right size.

“The small class sizes, even in a big program like Biology, helped me to develop some close relationships with professors which opened up opportunities for me to pursue my passions – such as receiving an NSERC Research Award and pursuing an undergraduate thesis,” explained Sydney.

Next stop, medical school

As she reflects on her time at Trent, Sydney knows that her admission to Dalhousie University’s Medical School is because of the connections she was able to make during her time at Trent.

“The relationships I built at Trent were huge for me because I knew I wanted to apply to medical school and I wanted somewhere I could build those relationships to open up opportunities and have references that actually knew me, and not just as a number in a class,” explains Sydney. “Because Trent is a small community and is more tight-knit, I was able to have opportunities that I wouldn’t have gotten elsewhere.”

Sydney’s biggest piece of advice for students considering Trent? “Go with your gut.” Your university career is just that – yours! Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and start making connections.”

Learn more about Biology and Forensic Science at Trent. Applications are still open for fall 2021.