Liam’s final homework assignment

Liam Wittenberg is among the more than 1,500 students graduating from the Faculty of Science on June 15th. We asked Liam, and nine other remarkable students, to look back at their time at McMaster and share what they learned, what they’ll miss and who helped them along the way. Here’s Liam’s final homework assignment.

The best advice you got as a student?

Don’t be too critical of yourself. Oftentimes, our work is much better than how we perceive it.

The best advice you’d give to a first-year student?

Don’t define yourself on how you perform in the first year. Focus on studying what you enjoy and everything will work out in the end.

The professor who pushed you the hardest and challenged you to aim higher?

Dr. Michael Brook.

The unsung heroes who went above and beyond for you at McMaster?

Harry Lu and Dr Miguel Melendez-Zamudio.

The one thing you never got around to doing?

I wish I’d participated in more intramural sports, especially the unconventional ones like dodgeball and water polo.

The one thing you’ll miss the most about McMaster?

Spending time with my wonderful friends, whether we’re in lectures, studying, or just hanging out.

The most important thing you learned in the classroom?

Sustainable solutions are much more attainable than we believe they are.

The most important thing you learned outside the classroom?

It’s important to tell a story when presenting your work, and answer the question: “Why should the audience care?”

Your best day as a Mac student?

The CHEM 4G12 thesis presentation day

The one thing you know now that you didn’t know on your first day at McMaster?

Most professors are very approachable and genuinely want to help you succeed.

A moment that mattered to you at Mac?

The night in my residence building when I was introduced to both my girlfriend and my roommates.

What was it like being a student at Mac during the pandemic?

Confusing, irritating, and difficult at times. However, it helped me appreciate in-person learning much more.

What’s next?

Master of Resource and Environmental Management at Dalhousie University.

Liam’s McMaster Highlights reel:

• First in undergrad oral presentation at Canadian Society for Chemistry 
• First in Polymer and Materials section at Southern Ontario Undergraduate Student Chemistry Conference 
• A+ for research thesis 
• Worked in lab for 2 summers, 4th year research thesis 
• First author on two papers, co-author on a third 
• First graduating cohort from Sustainable Chemistry 
• Going to Dalhousie for Masters in School for Resource and Environmental Studies