Sanya Bahl

Hey there, I’m Sanya! I was born in New Delhi, India and moved to Toronto when I was just a few months old. I have a younger brother and a dog as well. Currently, I am a fourth-year student completing my Bachelor's Degree in Biological Science at the University of Guelph. After taking the course, Principles of Pharmacology, I became increasingly interested in learning more about pharmacology and find it to be the most fascinating field in science. I specifically enjoy learning about new drug discoveries, pharmacodynamics and drug-drug interactions. Additionally, in the summer of 2019, I had the opportunity to intern at Shopper’s Drug Mart and shadow the lead pharmacist to further my interest and gain more knowledge. After graduation, I hope to be able to attend pharmacy school and pursue a career in pharmacology. My current career goal is to work as an industrial pharmacist and become involved in the drug production processes such as research and development, clinical trials and quality testing.

In the world of science, I am most inspired by Nina Tandon, the founder and CEO of EpiBone. EpiBone is a biomedical engineering company that grows living bones for in vitro use during skeletal reconstruction surgeries. It is inspiring to see women of colour, like myself, in STEM conduct groundbreaking research, create new fields for themselves and gain recognition. One day, I hope to be as successful and inspiring as Nina Tandon is in my own career.

Outside of the classroom, my hobbies and interests include reading, swimming, volunteering and hanging out with my friends and family. My favourite books that I have read this past year are Hunger by Roxane Gay and Caste by Isabel Wilkerson. One interesting fact about myself that most people do not know is that I have a recreational SCUBA diving license and have had the opportunity to SCUBA dive several times across Canada. One of my favourite places to SCUBA dive in Canada is in Tobermory, Ontario as there are many sites to see under the water. Moreover, I have been able to volunteer with a chiropractor, a family doctor and as a pharmacy intern at Shopper’s Drug Mart, all of which have helped me further my curiosity and discover my interests, particularly in the field of science. I have also had the privilege of working with various organizations such as Jack.org, a charity that raises awareness for mental health in young and Eva’s Initiatives, a shelter for homeless and abused youth.