Avoid comparisons, focus on your own journey: A new grad’s advice to first-year students

Published: October 31, 2024

By David Goldberg

Abidur Rahman, a recent honours graduate in molecular genetics at the University of Toronto, has already made impressive strides.

He earned a prestigious fellowship at the Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences in Germany, interned at the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology in Italy, collaborated with biotech startups and mentored several students - all while volunteering as a community advisor at Trinity College.

Rahman credits his success to the boundless opportunities offered by U of T's Faculty of Arts & Science. "The amount of research opportunities, internships and collaborations you have access to is unparalleled," says Rahman, who also found time to volunteer as a community advisor at Trinity College.

"You don't get the same magnitude of possibilities at other universities."

Now pursuing a master of science in genetic counselling at U of T, Rahman reflected on his U of T journey thus far and shared some of his insights and tips for current and future students:

What drew you to molecular genetics?

When I came to U of T, I was planning to major in neuroscience and psychology. It wasn't until my second year when I took a course with Naomi Levy-Strumpf, an assistant professor, teaching stream in the human biology program,that I became fascinated with the complexity of genetics and how it can be used to tell the stories of entire generations.

What motivated you to volunteer with Trinity College?

My family moved from Bangladesh when I was a teenager, and being a first-generation immigrant, I felt lost when I started university. That's why I wanted to give back. As a community advisor, I connected students with resources and clubs, like the Trinity College Multicultural Society, and created social programming that addressed mental health.

U of T has so many opportunities; it can also be like a maze. My goal was to help students find their way, just like my mentors helped me.

Can you tell us about your research fellowship at the Max Planck Institute?

I spent this past summer in Göttingen, Germany, working on bio-engineered heart muscle cells. My project focused on observing them in low-oxygen conditions, simulating what happens during a stroke. This research has the potential for real-world applications, like developing treatments for heart disease. The work makes you feel as though you're on the cusp of something that could help thousands of patients, and that's what excited me the most.

What are your plans after graduation?

I'm currently pursuing my master of science in genetic counselling, which is a clinical and professional program focusing on patient counselling and calculating genetic risks. My research project will examine how racialized families perceive the clinical utility of genetic testing. Most studies are based on individuals of European ancestry and that affects how well genetic testing works for people from other backgrounds.

I'm still exploring my future career path, but I can envision myself working in healthcare. During my undergraduate studies, I also had the opportunity to collaborate with several biotech startups, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Additionally, Toronto offers a wealth of opportunities in both fields, making it an exciting place to build a career.

What advice would you give to your first-year self?

Don't be in a rush to figure everything out. In my first semester, I was so focused on the future, but university isn't just an academic endeavor, it's also about personal growth and professional development. Take the time to enjoy your courses and build relationships with your professors.

My other critical piece of advice is to never compare yourself to others because, as the saying goes, comparison is the thief of joy. I remember feeling behind because I was still relatively new to Canada, and I didn't have the same high school experience as some of my peers. Stay focused on your journey and don't stress about what other people are doing.