Britney Wong

What happened after high school?

After high school, I attended the University of Calgary for a Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHSc (Hons)) degree, majoring in biomedical sciences (2017-2021). In my fourth year, I completed an honours thesis exploring how immune cells contribute to the development and progression of glioblastoma. Following my undergraduate degree, I completed a Master of Science in Community Health Sciences, with a specialization in Health Services Research (2021-2023). My research focused on creating a care pathway for agitation and aggression among persons living with dementia in long-term care. Currently, I attend the Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary as a second-year medical student. 

What do you remember from the Discovery Day event and what impact did it have on you?

The greatest memories I have from the Discovery Day in Health Sciences were from several of the wonderful workshops and Q&A sessions regarding research opportunities at the University of Calgary. In particular, I remember conducting a Hepatitis B workshop alongside several peers, where I learned key foundational principles of immunology research. I also recall a Q&A session, where several knowledgeable researchers gave us insight into potential career paths within health sciences. Ultimately, this event served as my first in-person exposure to the health sciences environment. I enjoyed meeting other students with similar career goals, and asking questions to experts in the field. This event, along with several other key experiences in high school, propelled me to pursue the health sciences field for my undergraduate degree. My passion for research has only grown from there, and I hope to continue developing my career in the health sciences field as a clinician-scientist.

Any advice for high school students?

When I attended high school, a science teacher of mine gave us the advice to always pursue our passions. This advice carried me through my high school years, and ultimately has underlined my actions throughout my post-secondary education. I would like to pass this message forward to current high school students – do not be afraid to try new endeavours, whether this be in your academic or academic pursuits, or hobbies. Pursue new passions and revisit old passions. In doing so, you will learn more about yourself than you ever thought you would.