(Alt text: Photograph of Dr. Travis Fridgen wearing a black suit and a blue-black checked tie)

Welcome to Memorial University and the Faculty of Science!

You’ve made an excellent choice in joining the Faculty of Science at Memorial. Here, you’ll find a dynamic community of world-class instructors, dedicated lab instructors, supportive administrative staff, and talented graduate and undergraduate teaching assistants, all committed to your success.

Your education in science will prepare you with skills that reach far beyond the classroom. You’ll learn to think critically, analyze data, formulate hypotheses, and test theories—abilities that will serve you well in any career or life path. As science evolves, we are dedicated to providing you with modern, engaging, and transformative learning experiences.

As you begin this exciting journey, I challenge you to embrace every opportunity and make the most of your university experience. Over the years, I’ve shared this same advice with my own children and countless high school and university students:

Above all else—find what excites you!

You don’t need to have your entire future planned out right now. Some of you may already know exactly what you want to do after graduation, while others are still exploring. Wherever you are on that spectrum, don’t be afraid to pivot and explore new directions. If a course sparks your interest, take it—even if it’s not required for your degree. You might discover a passion you never expected.

If you have the chance to participate in research, seize it. Research is a powerful way to explore your interests, develop critical thinking skills, and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries. It will also set you apart as you advance in your academic and professional journey.

Beyond your coursework and research, I encourage you to immerse yourself in the full university experience. Get involved in student societies, take on leadership roles, or join one of the 100+ student organizations on campus. Building connections with your peers, staff, and faculty will create memories and opportunities that last a lifetime. Many of our alumni reflect on how these connections made a significant impact on their careers and personal growth.

Once again, welcome to our vibrant scientific community. I have no doubt you’ll achieve incredible things and make us proud. If there is anything I or anyone in the Dean’s Office can do to support you, don’t hesitate to reach out—we are here to help.

Work hard, and it will pay off.

– Travis Fridgen, Dean of the Faculty of Science

 

_{Dr. Travis Fridgen has been a faculty member at Memorial since 2005. He previously held the role of associate dean (undergraduate and administration) in the Faculty of Science and was the head of the Department of Chemistry.}

_{He is a physical chemist whose NSERC-funded research involves the investigation of the structure, energetics, and reactions of biologically relevant ions in the gas phase. He has previously received both the Faculty of Science Distinguished Teacher Award and the President’s Award for Distinguished Teaching.}

_{Dr. Fridgen has contributed to chemistry education across Canada as a co-author of a widely-used first-year post-secondary chemistry textbook. Before coming to Memorial, he taught at Laurier and the University of Waterloo. He holds a B.Sc. in chemistry from Trent University and a B.Ed. and PhD from Queen’s University.}