Physics PhD graduate awarded TMU Gold Medal and Board of Governors Leadership Award
We are pleased to share that PhD graduate Gabriella Mankovskii has been awarded the 2022 Toronto Metropolitan University Gold Medal and the Board of Governors Student Leadership Award and Medal.
Gabriella completed her undergraduate, master’s, and recently this fall, her PhD degree, within the Department of Physics at TMU. Throughout her studies, her dedication to research, far-reaching community involvement, and outstanding contributions in her field make her a well-deserving recipient of this award.
Mankovskii shares her reflections on receiving the award, her experience at TMU, and her advice for future students who aspire to follow her path.
1. What does receiving the gold medal mean to you?
I have to be frank, this recognition took me by complete surprise. I was very humbled when I learned I was awarded the medals as I view my contributions to my profession and community as my moral duty. I am extremely honored to be in the midst of a talented group of individuals and represent the Faculty of Science. I am grateful to the Department of Physics for nominating me, and to the selection committee and the Board of Governors for selecting me.
2. What has been your most rewarding university experience?
The euphoria one experiences from scientific discovery is unparalleled. I will forever cherish my graduate student days as I was completely enthralled by research and the opportunity to contribute – even in a small way – to the scientific community. I also enjoyed teaching and supervising students, and I still receive emails from my previous students seeking help and guidance. Despite my academic achievements, I consider being a helpful and approachable teacher to be my biggest accomplishment and most rewarding experience during my tenure here.
A further highlight of my university experience is the mentorship I have received from faculty members. I will forever be grateful to my supervisor Dr. Ana Pejović-Milić for allowing me to develop my scientific independence and Dr. Mike Kolios and Dr. Raffi Karshafian for pushing my critical thinking and scientific skills to the next level. I am also indebted to Dr. Pedro Goldman for showing me how to be a caring teacher.
3. What experiences have helped you prepare for your future?
It is hard to pinpoint a particular experience without recognizing the impact that a doctoral degree as a whole can have on a student. Our theses are specialized so there is often a misconception that graduate training isn’t applicable outside of academia. However, each aspect of my training taught me transferable analytical and critical thinking skills that will help me regardless of where the tide takes me next. Thanks to the teaching, research and leadership skills that I honed during my training, I feel prepared to tackle any type of career. A PhD is one of the few degrees that can provide such a wide array of skills that can be so broadly applicable, which makes it that much more exciting.
4. What advice would you give students entering their first year?
Physics as a subject can be intimidating. First year students may feel overwhelmed by the change of pace and wide array of information headed their way. My advice is don’t be scared to ask for help! Faculty members are supportive and want to see you succeed, and many resources are available to help you navigate university – you just need to reach out. Moreover, as life can often be unpredictable, do not be discouraged when things don’t go according to plan. Use this as an opportunity to reflect and learn, and you will discover that there are many different paths to success.