Introduction

My time at TRU has offered me many experiences, research or otherwise. With the support of my peers and professors, I have been included in many relevant opportunities. Over the summer of 2024, I focused my energy on the lab, developing a new method to detect haloacetic acids in local water samples using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. This research will send me across Canada, first to Kelowna to present my poster at WCUCC and next to Ottawa to give an oral presentation at CSC. Not only has this research project provided me with ample opportunities to travel and explore the world of academia, but it has also enhanced my online research skills, honed my critical thinking, and taught me how to write a project proposal.

Of course, this one project does not define my entire research experience. I have completed the Chem 3140 Applied Analytical Chemistry course, which provided me with a detailed understanding of analytical method development, including but not limited to sampling and sample handling, extraction, determination, and data acquisition and also the Chem 2100 Introductory Analytical Chemistry course which introduced me to both a brand new flavour of chemistry and analyzing other scientist’s work. This learning opportunity is what truly opened my eyes to research. Many other students deem those topics to be dull, but I thrived. It was in that course that I truly began to understand all of the details that went into the preparation and planning of research. Planning and details happen to be a passion of mine. 

Throughout this portfolio, you’ll see my enthusiasm for science and exploring new topics and also my passion for chemistry as a whole.