Convocation countdown with…Adi Misra

Program: Honours Integrated Science

Hometown: Kleinburg, ON

Favourite course:

ISCI 1A24. The research projects changed how I approached problems by forcing me to work across disciplines rather than within one. Instead of treating questions as purely biological or environmental, I had to consider how human systems and ecosystems interact. That shift pushed me to pursue a minor in Environmental Sciences and reshaped how I think about science, not as isolated theory, but as something applied to complex, real-world issues.

Person you’re most thankful to have met at Mac:

Dr. Katherine Zukotynski. Working with Dr. Zukotynski as my thesis supervisor refined my approach to research. She taught me that research isn’t a straight line, it’s iterative, messy, and often unpredictable. Halfway through the year, I had to almost completely pivot my project, and I honestly wasn’t sure I’d finish anything in time. Through that process, she pushed me to focus on asking better questions, staying resilient, and trusting the process. I know this mindset will stick with me far beyond my thesis.

Best Mac moment:

One of my best moments was receiving a global learning scholarship to conduct cardiac imaging research in Switzerland. It sounded like a straightforward opportunity, but it ended up being one of the hardest things I’ve done. I had to adjust to a new country, navigate a new city, and learn just enough German to get by, all while keeping up with a faster-paced research environment. There were moments where I genuinely wasn’t sure I could keep up, but working through that pushed me to become more adaptable and confident in unfamiliar situations. Looking back, it was all worth it.

Person you’ll be most proud to show your degree to:

My grandfather. He lives in India, but he has always spoken so proudly about me studying at McMaster. Even from a distance, he’s been one of my biggest supporters. Being able to show him my degree feels like a full-circle moment, because I know how much this milestone means to him as well.

Best advice / insider tip for Mac students starting in September:

Don’t drain all your meal card money on Pita N More shawarma. On a more serious note, you’ll have moments where you’re frustrated or feel like you’re missing out while everyone else is out, and that’s part of the experience. Not everything will click right away, and that’s okay. Focus on what works for you, go at your own pace, and take ownership of your time, because at the end of the day, it’s your name on the degree.