Gillian Fraser '11, B.Sc. Honours, Biology, Hamilton, Ontario

Gillian Fraser exudes a fearless commitment to Conservation Biology.  From the beginning of her time here at Trent, Gillian knew she would be happy.  “I was provided with a wide breadth of courses to build a well-rounded approach to solving ecological problems,” states Gillian. “I loved that I was consistently introduced to new topics and new areas of science.”

Always interested in Biology, Gillian enjoyed Trent’s interactive labs which she feels were made possible through small class sizes. She took many Ecology-based courses featuring fishing and bird watching along the Otonabee River; water quality testing in Trent wetlands; tree surveys in the Drumlin; radio telemetry along the Rotary Trail and field studies in her professor’s own backyard.

“I love the opportunities the Biology program here presents to students,” said Gillian, “It really pushes us to become better scientists that think critically about ecological issues.”

Gillian credits Trent’s academic advisor Melanie Buddle and her professors for cultivating her interests in Biology and possible career paths. Describing the impact made by Dr. David Beresford, she said, “He completely re-shaped the way I think about science. Even better, he has such a great down-to-earth vibe that is completely intoxicating.”

Gillian will be pursuing graduate studies in the future and is hoping to travel and volunteer within different areas of wildlife conservation. In reflecting on her time here at Trent, Gillian says, “Trent is composed of this dense network of support and compassion, and it makes it so easy to feel comfortable. I am now a well-rounded student, learner and teacher.”

Awards and Scholarships received at Trent University:

• Biology Department Scholarship (2015)
• Winner, 3 Minute Paper Competition (2015)
• Paterson Eberhardt Award for Excellence in Teamwork (2015)
• Robert Lightbody Prize (2015)

Extra-curricular Activities:

• East Bank Coach, East vs. West Hockey Game (2014-2015)
• Player, Outdoor Soccer, Volleyball, Indoor Soccer and Inner-tube Water Polo Intramurals (2013-2015)
• Co-Chair, Introductory Seminar Week (ISW) Peter Gzowski College (2014)
• Math Department Tutor, Introduction to Statistics (2014)
• ISW Leader, Peter Gzowski College (2012-2013)
• Player, Women's Varsity Soccer team (2011-2012)