Vania Amani
About Me
Participating in the Talaria Summer Institute program has given me the opportunity to participate in research without facing prejudice. I firmly believe that without Talaria, I would have continued to face hardship in
Research Experience
At first, I was a bit nervous about starting my research. I was very passionate about the subject of antibiotic resistance and was concerned about its detrimental future consequences. However, I did not know much else about the topic besides its significance and urgency. As I met with my mentor, I felt as a though some weight had been lifted from my shoulders. He reassured me that he would support me every step of the research process and that I would only need to try my best. I am still very grateful to have had such an understanding mentor! As I met with my mentor, I felt as a though some weight had been lifted from my shoulders. He reassured me that he would support me every step of the research process and that I would only need to try my best. I am still very grateful to have had such an understanding mentor! Being a part of the Talaria program gave me the opportunity to research a subject I was passionate about with a mentor that had extensive experience in the field. Thanks to this, my passion for molecular biology grew and I hope to one day be able to be in the same position as my mentor!
Mentorship Experience
My mentor had some experience working in the field I was researching and, as a result, was able to guide me through the entire process. He was there to help support me when I felt as though I had hit a dead end. Through our weekly meetings, he would give me numerous constructive comments as to how I can improve my writing and even how to analyze certain sources. Overall, I was very fortunate to be matched with such an amazing, understanding mentor!
Favorite Part of Talaria
I truly enjoyed every aspect of Talaria. From my understanding and knowledgeable mentor to the amazing Vancouver Chapter team, I firmly believe that Talaria was one of my favourite summer experiences! Being a part of the Talaria Vancouver Chapter gave me the opportunity to make long term friends and amazing summer experiences! We would go out together to the beach, and although I was not able to attend sometimes, our group chats served as a supportive and encouraging space for all of us researching. Overall, I do not think the experience would have been the same without all of my fellow mentees!
Who I Recommend Talaria For
I would say that if they identify as a part of a minority group, LGBTQIA2S+ or have faced hardship in their academic journey, preventing them from reaching their full academic potential, they should strongly consider applying. Not only will you be able to gain experience researching a topic of your choice under the supervision of a graduate student/professor, but you will also be making amazing long term friends in your chapter!
Advice for Future Applicants
I would say that if they identify as a part of a minority group, LGBTQIA2S+ or have faced hardship in their academic journey, preventing them from reaching their full academic potential, they should strongly consider applying. Not only will you be able to gain experience researching a topic of your choice under the supervision of a graduate student/professor, but you will also be making amazing long term friends in your chapter!
