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Meet Our Students: Celebrating Success Stories – Lisa Jin

By Diana Corredor

In our Meet Our Students: Celebrating Success Stories series, we highlight the remarkable journeys of students who are making the most of their time at Western. This edition features Lisa Jin, a Bachelor of Science student pursuing an Honours Specialization in Psychology.

Jin’s interest in psychology began in middle school, where she became fascinated by the human mind and the complexities of mental health. That early curiosity turned into a clear academic path. “Western was one of my top choices,” she says. “The campus is beautiful, the community is diverse and welcoming, and the Psychology program is one of the best in the country.”

What stood out to Jin about the program was its interdisciplinary approach. She found that psychology at Western doesn’t exist in isolation — it’s connected to biology, neuroscience, and sociology. “It helped me understand human behaviour in a more well-rounded way,” she explains. From participating as a subject in research studies to diving into academic literature, Jin has experienced psychology from multiple perspectives.

Currently, Jin volunteers as an undergraduate research assistant at the Advanced Facility for Avian Research (AFAR), where she supports experiments involving black-capped chickadees. “We’re studying how light cycles affect memory consolidation and food preferences,” she says. “I help with setting up experiments, caring for the birds, and working directly with the lead researcher.”

Her experience at AFAR opened her eyes to what research truly involves. “There’s a lot more to it than just collecting data. You need patience, problem-solving skills, and a strong sense of responsibility. From designing studies to navigating unexpected events, I’ve learned how crucial it is to be adaptable and detail-oriented.”

Jin also works part-time as a Facility Technician with Animal Care & Veterinary Services — a position she found through Western’s Connect job board. In this role, she supports the daily operations of animal research facilities, including housekeeping, logistics, and inventory management, all while maintaining high standards of animal care. “It might sound simple,” she says, “but I’ve learned how every role, even the behind-the-scenes ones, plays an essential part in the success of scientific research.”

One piece of advice that stayed with her came from a professor who encouraged students to take the time to carefully consider their next steps after undergrad. “That advice reminded me to reflect on what path makes the most sense for me personally. It’s okay to explore different options and take the time to decide which direction truly aligns with your interests and goals.”

Outside the lab, Jin has found community and joy through HipHop Western (HHW), a student-led dance group she joined in her first year. “I hadn’t realized how much I missed dancing until I joined HHW. The practices, the performances, the friendships — it all made a huge difference in my university experience. It gave me balance, helped me de-stress, and made me feel part of something special.”

Lisa Jin’s story is a powerful reminder that student success is shaped not only by academic achievement, but by self-discovery, perseverance, and community. Her journey shows how passion, curiosity, and a willingness to explore can lead to meaningful experiences — both inside and outside the classroom.

Stay connected with us for more inspiring student stories and see how Western’s Faculty of Social Science is helping students thrive in every direction.

If you want to share your own story or know someone who should be featured, please reach out to us!