Advanced Biology Teacher with a Master's degree in Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology. Detail-oriented lesson approach and willing to teach all ages.

Find out more about Michelle

• When and why did you develop an interest in your chosen field?

  I had always taken a particular interest in the sciences, however, it wasn't until I was halfway through my undergraduate degree in Biology at McMaster University that I realized exactly what I wanted to do with my education. I had the wonderful opportunity to complete my undergraduate thesis at the McMaster Children's hospital. I took to the environment and work very quickly and from that point, was confident that clinical research was going to be my path forward. During this time, I was also working as a clinical research assistant at Princess Margaret Cancer Research where I was able to experience first-hand, the transition from bench research (what I was currently participating in at school) to clinical trials research. I worked on several trials pertaining primarily to breast cancer and was intrigued by the methodology behind targeting specific unregulated proteins/pathways in the context of aggressive breast cancer. This idea of precision-based medicine followed me into my Master's degree at the the University of Toronto where I completed a degree in Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology. It was here that I worked directly on the development of alternative therapeutic strategies against aggressive forms of Triple-negative breast cancer and childhood brain cancer. I was able to integrate both my passions for cancer and paediatric research into my project.

• What makes you passionate about your subject?

  Unfortunately, everyone has had some experience with a family member, friend or coworker who has been affected by cancer. I am no exception, it is a terrible feeling to watch loved ones experience pain and be unable to aid in any way other than emotional support. It is because of this that I decided to pursue an academic career in cancer research. While I acknowledge that there is no "ultimate cure" to cancer, I believe that any all and all research contributions make a difference. I wanted to feel like I was taking steps toward improving the circumstances for all those affected, even if I was only making it 0.1% better, it would be worth it.

• What do you like about tutoring? What makes you a "Superprof"?

  I always found it difficult to adapt to the forever changing teaching styles of my professors and therefore relied on a lot of self study to better understand concepts and theories. In the same manner, I would constantly offer help to other students who also struggled to grasp information simply from a poorly laid out PowerPoint. I therefore began tutoring early in High school, offering free help to fellow students after school and during lunch to make sure they succeeded. I enjoyed the feeling of being of service. Later on during my undergraduate degree, I began working with younger children, specifically those with learning disabilities. I understood the importance of being able to offer one-on-one care to these students who required more direct attention and a steady level of patience. It can be incredibly frustrating to feel academically left behind, especially at a young age. My goal was to develop a relationship with my students to encourage trust and safety, I would then develop a specialized curriculum that encompassed what was required for their age range and cater my lesson plans to the strengths of said students. I continued to work with children who had learning disabilities and even worked for a non-for-profit organization (Center for Diverse Learners) to aid students with their literacy. It is incredibly fulfilling to make progress with students and see their confidence increase as they expand their learning beyond what they felt they were initially capable of.

• Do you have any role models; a teacher that inspired you? Please explain.

  In grade 11, I had a biology teacher who made a special impact on my learning, someone I credit for the career path I chose today. Her infectious attitude towards biology and learning made every day of learning captivating. She enjoyed her work and it showed, which made it that much more interesting to be in her class. She was knowledgeable and took care in planning her lessons which I greatly appreciated. Not only was she a great teacher, but she was incredibly kind and understanding. I always had some anxiety with regards to grades and learning and in any case, she was there to support my learning and work with me to help me meet my goals. It is her grace, knowledgeability and kindness that I try to carry with me in my own teachings.

• What are your keys to success?

  From a basic perspective, kindness, understanding, and hard work are all a part of my keys to success. Apart from that, I believe you never stop learning. A part of being a good teacher/tutor is understanding that you will always be learning something new, and to be unafraid to do so. Research constantly changes, concepts n textbooks are updated, and there are constantly new findings that change our understanding of the world around us. Keeping this in mind and not being rigid in my teachings helps me continue to provide the best teachings to my students.