Our courses are so hands-on and application based that you end up developing a unique and valuable skillset, which ends up leading into a variety of career paths ...

What did you find beneficial about your program at McMaster?

Compared to four years ago when I first entered the program, I am now much more of a critical thinker. Our professors were always pushing us to “think outside the box” and to never accept an answer without analyzing it first. Cog Sci was a fairly small program, so it really allowed us students and professors to get to know each other. Everybody is there for one another which fosters an amazing sense of community. I miss it already!

What advice would you give to a current student who is thinking about career options?

Experience! Try to get as much experience as possible, and it doesn’t necessarily have to be paid. Volunteering in the community, at faculty events or volunteering in a lab will allow you to truly understand what you find interesting. You may even come across career paths that you didn’t know existed! Don’t be afraid to send someone an email asking if there are any volunteer/shadowing opportunities available. There is really nothing to lose.
Additionally, it’s never too early to start getting experience. I personally started volunteering at an audiology clinic in first year, realized I wanted to pursue something else and eventually moved on to other positions. This is a time for you to figure yourself out!

In your opinion, what is the value of a Humanities degree?

A Humanities degree really helps you develop a more flexible view of the world. We are able to take courses in everything from History and Linguistics to more “science-y” subjects such as Anatomy and Psychology. Our courses are so hands-on and application based that you end up developing a unique and valuable skillset, which ends up leading into a variety of career paths that would otherwise have been difficult to grow accustomed to.