Meet Alice Dong
Degree: BMSc’24 (honours specialization in microbiology and immunology and a minor in biochemistry)
Roles: International Transitions Activity Coordinator
Peer Guide Volunteer
Home Country: Canada
Why I chose Western
Western offered the type of program I wanted related to human biology and has a strong focus on student experience.
Highlights from my Western Experience
Two of my highlights are related to volunteering with Western International. My first volunteer position with Western International was as an international transitions activity coordinator in 2022. For that role, I helped to organize Global Café weekly events, working with a team of student volunteers and a supervisory committee. Those events are diverse, with themes from mental health and campus supports to themes focused on a specific culture or festival, like Lunar New Year. That role gave me the chance to learn a lot about different cultures and was eye-opening. My favourite memory from my time at Western is my involvement with Global Café, because it was something I was very focused on, and the vibe was so positive.
My second position at Western International was as an international Peer Guide. In that role, I was paired up with new incoming international students and I answered questions they had, invited them to events, and supported them. It was a very rewarding position because I felt I helped make a difference in their first few months at Western.
An accomplishment I’m proud of
I’m proud of how I helped bring Global Café back to in-person events after two years of being virtual due to the pandemic. The program has a long history of being successful, but it had not been the same when we were online. We were able to rebuild a strong community once we could meet again in person.
What’s next for me
I’m planning to go to graduate school to focus on science or medical science. I hope to complete a master’s degree or PhD, but I haven’t decided which way I want to go yet for work, whether that will be government labs or industry. I do know I want to be a researcher or a scientist and generate new knowledge, new treatments, or technologies.
My advice for new students
My first piece of advice would be to try not to be overwhelmed by the number of different choices you have to make. Take your time and know that there are many supports you can access if you need them even if you think what you’re experiencing may not be a “big deal”. It’s important to talk to someone if you feel you should.
Next, I would say, don't be afraid to go to social events alone if you haven’t met any friends yet. That may be where you’ll meet them!
