Every year thousands of young people are faced with the critical choice of where to attend university. For some, the decision is not easy and can take many months. For others, it's a "no-brainer." Jaden Wright (BSc '09) counts himself in the latter camp.

Wright graduated with honours from the U of L in 2009 with a BSc in biochemistry. A high-performing high school student who had his pick from any number of universities, Wright recalls why his choice to attend the University of Lethbridge was so easy. Now studying to become a medical doctor at the University of Alberta, Wright found exactly what he was looking for from the University.

Alumnus Jaden Wright made the most of his chance to gain hands-on experience through a variety of University programs.

"I found the smaller class sizes at the U of L really beneficial. It was nice to be able to see professors outside of class and for them to know what class of theirs I was in," says Wright. "I found it really easy to approach the professors and ask them for help, and to get involved in undergrad research opportunities."

Wright took advantage of those opportunities and made the most of his chance to gain hands-on experience through a variety of University programs. He worked with Dr. Ute Kothe, an assistant professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, as an independent study student, an honours thesis student, summer student and co-op student.

"My co-op work experience was great in that I was able to try different jobs before having to commit to a career choice," he says. "I was able to see what it was like working in agriculture, neuroscience and biochemistry research, and find out what was the best fit for me."

Wright's positive memories about the benefits of the University's student-centred approach are a common refrain among many graduates. Asked if he had any words of advice for current students, Wright says they should take full advantage of the opportunity to have close, one-on-one learning experiences with their professors.

"Talk to your professors outside of class," he says. "Most professors I had at the U of L were extremely friendly and helpful. They wanted me to succeed. They also were eager to provide opportunities for research experience and opportunities to develop personal skills not acquired in classroom learning."

This story first appeared in the January edition of the Legend. For a look at the Legend in a flipbook format, follow this link.