Lauren Ostrowski ’09, Honours, B.Sc, Forensic Science and Psychology, Barrie, ON

“Trent opened up the opportunity for me to further my education at the graduate level”

Ms. Lauren Ostrowski received esteemed recognition for her academic research as well for her meaningful work in the community.  A consistent member of the Dean’s list, she was notably rewarded the Community-Based Research Award (2013) for her work with the Peterborough Lakefield Community Police Service regarding the development of best practices for victim services in their interaction with families of homicide and sudden death.   

As an avid volunteer within the Trent community she will continue her research work at Trent in the fall as she works toward her Master’s of Science in Cell Biology and Genetics.

What are your future goals?
I am an undergraduate but am going into graduate school starting September 2013. I am currently working in Dr. Saville's molecular biology laboratory studying the role of natural antisense transcripts in gene expression.  In September 2013, I will be continuing my research in Dr. Saville's laboratory which will lead to a Master's of Science in Cell Biology and Genetics.

What did you get out of your Trent degree?
I am interested in molecular biology and genetics, specifically gene expression and function.

My interests developed in third year once I was exposed to advanced laboratory courses.  Having such small lab groups at Trent made the courses that much more interesting as we were able to gain a great deal of lab experience.

What is the best thing about studying at Trent?
I have learned what it takes to excel in an academic environment and to reach my full potential.  I have also gained a greater appreciation for academics and education overall and look forward to pursuing my academic career with graduate studies.

Trent opened up the opportunity for me to further my education at the graduate level.  I also enjoyed lots of hands on experience with high-tech laboratory equipment.

Can you give an example of how Trent professors had a special impact?
One professor that stood out is Dr. Barry Saville.  He recognized my potential during a group presentation and approached me to discuss graduate studies.  He really sparked my interest in pursuing my education just by noticing my potential and acting on it rather than simply giving me a good grade.

Volunteer work:
I volunteered with the Disability Services at Trent providing photocopies of my lecture notes for my classes.  These notes were provided to students with disabilities who are unable to attend class or unable to take effective notes.

I also volunteered with the peer mentoring program and was paired with a mentee whom I helped with lecture and textbook material, as well as preparing for exams and understanding assignment instructions.

I also volunteered as a lab demonstrator in the forensic science department .

Extracurricular activities:
Finally, I acted as a paid tutor for two courses in statistics and research design.  I designed weekly lesson plans to complement the professor's lectures and assigned readings.  I met with students one on one on a weekly basis throughout the 24-week courses.

Awards and Scholarships received at Trent University:

• Trent University Renewable Scholarship (2011-2013),
• NSERC USRA (Natural Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada Undergraduate Student Research Award) (2013)
• Community-Based Research Award (2013)
• Trent University Dean's List (2011-2013)