Q&A: Five questions with graduating WCVM master’s student

Truc Nguyen’s research focused on substrate-binding proteins (proteins that help to uptake nutrients from the environment) of Gardnerella swidsinskii. This bacterial species is one of the most dominant of Gardnerella, which is associated with a common gynecological condition called bacterial vaginosis.

Q: Why did you choose the USask and the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM)?

A: Choosing to do my graduate program at the USask and WCVM was a natural transition for me as I completed my undergraduate honours thesis with Dr. Janet Hill (PhD) in 2022/23. Dr. Hill, who also supervised my graduate work, is a professor and head of the WCVM’s Department of Veterinary Microbiology.

Q: What’s been a highlight of your graduate program?

A: Diving deeper into science, meeting people on and off campus who have similar passions, and enjoying student-oriented activities in an academic environment.

Q: How have people at the WCVM helped you during your graduate program?

A: Thanks to my graduate supervisor and other lab members, I had a very strong support system all the way through my honours project and master’s program. Dr. Hill is an extremely knowledgeable and thoughtful person who I consider as a role model in science and in life.

Champika Fernando, our previous lab manager, and other members of Dr. Hill’s lab provided so much support (especially mentally) throughout my time as a student. I also made a lot of friends in the department and across campus with whom I had a lot of memorable experiences.

Q: What are your plans now that you’ve completed your master’s program?

A: I’m working as a research technician under Dr. Hill’s supervision at the WCVM. I’m very pleased to be working in a familiar environment with many people that I already know very well.

My MSc studies have equipped me with not only more scientific knowledge but also professional skills — organizational skills, communication skills and more — that I use every day in my work. It has also provided me with a great chance to network with other people in the field — especially at conferences.

Q: What’s your advice for new graduate students?

A: Don’t be afraid to try new things, ask questions when diving into a new topic (after doing some research on your own time, of course), and always do the best you can so you have no regrets about your efforts. As well, network when you can because the good connections you gain during your graduate studies will most likely have a positive impact on your future career.