When fourth-year Biochemistry and Molecular Biology major Robert Briggs emailed Dr. William Dew, a Biology professor at Trent University, about his interest in research, he did not anticipate the correspondence would lead to him working directly alongside Professor Dew in the lab.

“I sent him an email one day explaining that I would like to get a sense as to what it’s like to do research at the fundamental level, and he responded back saying, let’s have a meeting!”

The result was a reading course that has provided Mr. Briggs with the opportunity to participate in groundbreaking chemosensory and fish physiology research. By having the opportunity to participate in undergraduate research at Trent, Mr. Briggs feels that he is equipped with the confidence and knowledge that he will require as he pursues his goal of a career in medicine.

Outside of the lab, Mr. Briggs has been a member of the Otonabee College Cabinet, and a residence life don. He has also worked for Conference and Hospitality Services and is now a Campus Tour Guide. He says that the biggest piece of advice for future students is to get involved and make the most of your university experience.

“The first thing that pops into my mind when I think of Trent is involvement,” states Mr. Briggs. “There are so many opportunities to get involved and with the smaller base population of students, the fraction is so much in your favour. You really have the ability to maximize your time here.”

Trent University prides itself on providing an outstanding personal and interactive learning environment. This story is part of the #MeetaTrentStudent series, which highlights our many student success stories and the numerous dynamic programs offered at Trent.