More than 150 students are coming to McMaster University this year to begin their studies in one of the university’s most competitive and unique programs: the Integrated Biomedical Engineering & Health Sciences (iBioMed) program. 

iBioMed is a program that draws on the strengths of the Faculties of Health Sciences and Engineering to prepare students to bring their ideas to life, from designing prototypes, building solutions, and addressing real-world problems across health, tech, and sustainability. 

The first of its kind in Canada, students enter the program through a common first year, where they establish a strong foundation of skills and knowledge from both faculties. They then select one of nine Level II programs, leading to one of two degrees: an Honours BHSc in Health, Engineering Science and Entrepreneurship, or a Bachelor of Engineering and Biomedical Engineering in one of eight disciplines.  

We connected with a few students starting with the program to learn more about them, their excitement to become a Marauder and where they hope the iBioMed program takes them.

Michelle Kocher from Kemble, Ontario 

Aside from the Integrated Biomedical Engineering & Health Sciences (iBiomed) program, what drew you to McMaster? 

What really drew me to McMaster was the community. Every time I visited, the campus had such a welcoming atmosphere, and everyone I met was friendly and easy to talk to. I loved how beautiful the campus is; it felt like somewhere I could see myself spending the next few years. Another factor was the lacrosse team as it gives me the chance to keep playing a sport I love. 

What course are you most excited about and why? 

I think I’m most excited for my chemistry course next semester. I’ve always been a huge chemistry nerd, so I can’t wait to dive deeper into it. I love how chemistry is involved in pretty much everything. Hopefully, I’ll still feel the same way after all the labs and exams. 

What are your career aspirations? 

I’m not going to lie; I don’t really have a concrete plan for my future yet. That’s actually part of why I chose this program because it keeps a lot of doors open and gives me the chance to explore different paths in health and engineering. I’m hoping it will lead to an exciting and rewarding career. 

What are some of your hobbies? 

I really love to sleep! I also enjoy playing sports, and I was fortunate to be able to do a lot of different ones both at school and outside of it (swimming, basketball and Nordic skiing). I really enjoy music, specifically playing instruments such as the piano and clarinet. And when I have the time, I love to cook and bake.

Will Sargeant from Thorold, Ontario 

Aside from the Integrated Biomedical Engineering & Health Sciences (iBiomed) program, what drew you to McMaster? 

One major appeal of McMaster to me was how the campus felt like its own little community or town. When I came here on tours, I didn’t feel like the campus was overwhelmed by downtown Hamilton or that there was too much going on to take in. It made me feel grounded, like this is exactly where I’m supposed to be.

What course are you most excited about and why?  

The course I’m most excited for is IBEHS IP10. I’m a very hands-on learner, and from what I understand, this course focuses on the engineering design process and is project-based. I’m looking forward to solving complex problems by collaborating with my fellow peers in the iBioMed program and getting to know the people I’ll be struggling and thriving with over the next five-plus years!  

What are your career aspirations?  

To be completely honest, I’m not entirely sure what my career aspirations are. I’m not even sure which stream of engineering I want to focus on next year. However, that’s one of the reasons I chose the iBioMed program: it opens the door to so many opportunities that no matter which stream I choose or where my interests take me, I’ll be well-prepared for the future.  

 What are some of your hobbies?  

My biggest hobby is sports. My love for sports is as strong as it gets. I play hockey, football, basketball, golf and more. Not only do I enjoy playing, but I also love watching. I’m a huge Toronto Maple Leafs fan, San Francisco 49ers fan and Toronto Blue Jays fan. Aside from sports, I enjoy building LEGO, watching movies and TV shows (I’m a massive MCU fan) and spending time out on the water.  

Anika Yadav from Ottawa, Ontario 

Aside from the Integrated Biomedical Engineering & Health Sciences (iBiomed) program, what drew you to McMaster?    

I’ve always been passionate about creating environments where diversity and different perspectives are valued. During my campus tour, I saw how McMaster lives out these values, with many efforts to make sure everyone feels included. I’m also a strong advocate for peer support as a valuable tool for both learning and building a strong community. I’m very excited to join the many mentorship programs available, as well as McMaster’s Undergraduate Peer Tutoring Network, and help support this philosophy. 

What course are you most excited about and why?  

I’m especially excited about the entrepreneurship and design courses! I’ve always loved combining art with technology and creating my own projects, and the idea of designing tools and products to serve others adds a whole new dimension to that passion – one that I can’t wait to explore! 

What are your career aspirations?  

I’ve always seen healthcare as a vital part in supporting the well-being of our society, which is why I aspire to become a family doctor. The growing shortage of primary care in Canada has made me reflect on how I can be part of the solution. I’ve been interested in science for as long as I can remember, and I’m inspired by the opportunity to build long-term relationships with families and support their health throughout their lives. 

What are some of your hobbies?  

I really enjoy rock climbing and am excited to join the McMaster Climbing Club this year. I also spend a lot of time drawing – both digitally and in my sketchbook – as well as reading sci-fi and fantasy books and exploring libraries wherever I go.