Bacterial Genomics University of Guelph, August 8, 2025

Hi ! My name is Manon, and I’m an international student from Japan. Today, I will be writing about my experience at SSP, and what I learnt throughout the program. 

As you know, I attended SSP at the University of Guelph, in Canada. That involved for me a long trip all the way from Japan, which is 8000km! I had never travelled alone before, and I remember feeling very nervous and scared. For me, attending the program not only meant learning new scientific techniques and skills but also becoming independent and getting out of my comfort zone. It was tough, especially because English isn’t my first language. Still, my excitement was greater than my fear : next thing  I remember, I was on my flight to Canada 🙂 

My first week was rough, because of jet lag (there’s a 13 HOURS difference). That added up to homesickness, and I still recall how I felt every night, staring at the ceiling because I couldn’t sleep. When that feeling creeped in, I used to text my parents, asking for reassurance. I would feel so anxious and tired of not being able to sleep. I really hope you didn’t/will not have to go through this, but if you did/do know that you’re not alone… 

In these moments, what kept me going was the community here at SSP. I would like to thank my amazing friends and all of my peers for always being there for me. They’re all incredible, ambitious and kindhearted people, and I am so glad I met them. 

Here’s a few pictures of them…

Me (left) and Suhani!!! My lab mate ❤️

My other lab mate, Andrew, and us locked in 💪

College and career fair! David, Audrey, Suhani, TA Elena, Angie at the back and Joyce, Vanessa, Apple at the front! 

An afternoon at Johnston Green! 

Me and Audrey on a walk! 

I would also like to thank the TAs, especially TA Elena. She helped me when I was struggling with my anxiety, and took care of me when I couldn’t do it by myself. I still remember how reassuring it felt to know that I have someone I can talk to whenever I’m feeling down. I would forever be grateful for all her support and help. I admire her so much and I aspire to be like her when I grow up.

Besides academics, I was able to find people I can trust and love here at SSP, even if the program is only 5 weeks long. It is mind blowing how fast we all got close. We all came here with our passion for science being the only thing in common, but we’re all family now! One of my favorite memories I have with them is singing together to the sound of guitar and violin (played by Angie and Emilian) 

Especially at that particular moment, I felt so lucky to be part of the community. I knew I would miss them, and everything I’ve lived here at SSP. The lectures, the labs, the challenging assignments taught me how to manage my time, to be determined and brought me new knowledge. However, after study hall walks, the calm Sundays spent laying on Johnston Green, movie nights… They taught me that no matter the differences, people that were once strangers could still feel like family. 

So please. 

Even after we all grow up, even if we end up in different countries, even if we start our career and move on with life… 

Please don’t be a stranger. 

Thanks for the best memories, love you guys ❤️