Jessica Ralston 

BSc (HK)' 10, PhD '15

Read Jessica's Bio

Alumni Week Q&A

What is your fondest memory from U of G?

I always loved the U of G campus itself (it really is one of the prettiest campuses). Many of my best memories from U of G involve my time in HHNS. I met many of my closest friends in HHNS, building lifelong friendships that I can’t imagine my life without. HHNS was always a very social and fun department. I played on a number of intramural HHNS teams (ultimate frisbee, soccer, volleyball, 3-pitch, water polo), so I have some wonderful memories from those teams as well.

I also really loved my lab in HHNS, and the teaching assistant positions I undertook throughout my time in grad school. Prof. David Mutch was a fabulous supervisor and I learnt so much from him and my time in his lab. Many of my early career mentors, including David, Prof. Coral Murrant, Prof. Lori Vallis (to name only a few!) all had an incredibly positive impact on me and my career trajectory.

What values did U of G instill in you that you carry to this day?

U of G has instilled many important values in me, but the ones I likely rely on the most are persistence, dedication, preparation and accountability.

What is one piece of advice you want to give to current and future U of G students?

Don’t be afraid to pursue roles or institutions a bit ‘unknown’ to you. When I left Guelph I was not very familiar at all with the research landscape in Ireland and UCD. I approached moving to Ireland as ‘testing the waters of the unknown’, thinking that there was a chance I wouldn’t enjoy the research environment here. Years later, my life in Ireland has brought me opportunities I never thought possible, and what was once ‘unknown’ is now a career that I find tremendously engaging and fulfilling.

What are you most excited about for the CBS 50th anniversary/Alumni Week?

I am looking forward to reconnecting with other alumni and seeing the exciting places people have gone. It will also be nice to reminisce the great times at U of G and the important impacts the University has had in our lives as alumni.