Students

Patricia Eiman: BSc with Double Major, Chemistry and Biological Sciences

Donna McKinnon - 6 June 2025

 
As a double major in chemistry and biological sciences, it’s no wonder that Patricia Eiman admits that one of her challenges as a student was “overfilling her cup.” Boundless curiosity is one of her defining qualities, leading her to seek out new experiences even if they’re difficult as a means of expanding her knowledge. This included going abroad for a term as a research intern with the DAAD RISE (Research in Science & Engineering) Germany Internship program — a daunting but fulfilling experience which deepened her love of research.     

The cost of overextension, as she learned, is burn-out, but Patricia’s resilience prevailed especially after she began to prioritize her mental health by establishing clear boundaries and managing her commitments. 

Accepted into the , Patricia will be headed back to Europe after graduation to further her education internationally.  

“I’m excited to build on my research experience and explore how science can support a more sustainable, circular economy.”


Congratulations Patricia!


What program are you graduating from? 

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Biological Science (double major).

What led you to choose your current area of study, and why the U of A for your studies?

I've loved science for as long as I can remember. I never really grew out of that curiosity phase and I think that's what defines us all as scientists. I was the kind of kid who would flip the light switch on and off, wondering why I saw black and white in the dark but colour when the lights were on long before I learned how the eyes worked. That drive to discover and understand the world has always been a part of who I am. At school, science and math always came natural to me. There was structure and logic and I genuinely enjoyed solving problems. I chose the ֱ because it was familiar and inspiring — somewhere I'd seen my two older sisters grow and succeed. It's one of the top universities in the country, and the quality of education and research opportunities I've had access to are things I truly don't take for granted.

What is one of your favourite memories from your time at the U of A? 

One of my favourite memories at the U of A was doing Red Eye with my siblings and friends. We competed against other teams in wild, chaotic versions of sports games from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. It was a night full of chaos and zero sleep, but such a core memory.

Tell us about your favourite professor and/or class. 

, the director of the undergraduate organic chemistry laboratories, but also my mentor and the reason I got into research! In 2022, she gave me the opportunity to join her lab. It was my first time doing research and it has changed the course of my academic journey.

Since then, I've continued to grow to love being in the lab. That first opportunity led to internships in industry and a research placement abroad in Germany (DAAD RISE (Research in Science & Engineering) Germany Internship). I wouldn't be where I am without her support.

Did you take on any leadership roles while you were a student? 

I was a ambassador on the special events team, helping to plan and run sustainability-focused events on campus. It gave me the chance to connect with like-minded people who care about the environment and I made some really great friends along the way. It was a fun way to take on a leadership role and get involved in something I’m passionate about outside of academics.

Did you face any significant obstacles or challenges during your program?

The biggest challenge I faced during my program was my habit of overfilling my cup. In third year, when I first started research, I was also in two other labs taking a full course load, volunteering and working part-time. I kept expecting myself to excel in everything, but the pressure I put on myself really took a toll on my mental health. It took time, but I eventually had to accept that I couldn’t do everything and that it’s okay to set boundaries and let go of some commitments. Learning to prioritize and take care of myself was a hard but necessary lesson.

What advice do you have for current and future students? 

My biggest advice is to make opportunities for yourself. Don’t wait for things to fall into place — network, cold email professors and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. The connections you make with your professors and mentors can really shape your path. Get experience in your field early, stay curious and be proactive about reaching out.

How do you plan on celebrating convocation?

I’ll be celebrating with my close friends and family. I’d love to do a nice dinner and take lots of photos to commemorate the moment.

What's next after graduation? 

I was accepted into the with a full scholarship! I’ll be spending my first year in France and my second in Spain. I’m excited to build on my research experience and explore how science can support a more sustainable, circular economy.