Who: Megan Engel
Degree: '12 BSc; '13 MSc
Current Occupation: Student
Bio: I grew up in Edmonton and am completely in love with my home. I am currently studying for a PhD in physics at Oxford University in England as a Rhodes Scholar, but hope to return to Alberta soon. In addition to physics, singing and playing piano are my deep-seated passions, and I love writing music and performing.
What do you miss most about being a U of A student? I miss being part of The Last Alliance: University of Alberta Tolkien Society. The inclusive, welcoming environment cultivated therein was unequalled.
Favourite campus memory? One week in second year, I had a midterm every day save Friday, when a big lab report was due. Friday came, and exhaustion, desperation, and despair conspired to drive my lab mates and I to the 10th floor Education Lounge at midnight to work on the report 'til the wee sma's. At one point, to explain some particularly troublesome data, my friend - out of ideas - wrote, "these are not good values. They shall not be referred to again" in his formal lab report, which spurred a fit of laughter so intense I shall never forget it or that fateful night. The irony is that he & I still refer to them!
What's the one piece of advice you'd give a current U of A student? Keep a journal detailing the events of your life, regardless of how unpleasant or mundane they seem. These years are the crucible that forges the person you will become, and each experience will acquire a rich coloration in retrospect and catalyze self-understanding. I wish I had kept more extensive records to return to.
Best procrastination activity? Waiting in line for an incomparably delicious and satisfying Double Double at Tim Hortons in CAB.
Favourite course/professor? How could I choose only one!? I remember feeling most awe-struck in Astro 326: Professor Craig Heinke surveyed the Universe with us - from the collisions of galaxies to the heartbeat of quasars - to our infinite delight, and never tired of answering our eager questions!
If you got one university do-over, what would it be? I would have gotten involved in student groups earlier on in my degree.
Favourite secret makeout/study spot? I can't speak to the make-out spots, but my favourite place to study was Cameron Science Library on the "Silent" floor. I loved getting a desk by the window and setting up camp for the day.
What did you do to help you stay sane during exam time? In all honesty, I didn't stay sane during exam time. I was a delusional, bedraggled, emotional mess!
What impact has the U of A had on your life? The mentorship and research experiences I had at the U of A defined my path and led me to academic physics. The leadership and volunteering experiences I enjoyed, especially through The Last Alliance and the U of A hospital, occasioned enormous personal development and gave rise to lasting friendships. I owe my successes in large part to the institution; it was, and is, a perfect nest in which to craft one's wings.
What should all new grads know? The times in life that are filled with the greatest suffering bring the most significant growth. Even if you cannot yet see it, the University experiences that seemed the most painful at the time built the foundation from which you now launch.Thus, know two things: firstly, that there are bleak times ahead, and secondly, that you can face them with the hope born of knowing that wisdom grows in darkness.
We at New Trail welcome your comments. Robust debate and criticism are encouraged, provided it is respectful. We reserve the right to reject comments, images or links that attack ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender or sexual orientation; that include offensive language, threats, spam; are fraudulent or defamatory; infringe on copyright or trademarks; and that just generally aren’t very nice. Discussion is monitored and violation of these guidelines will result in comments being disabled.