Getting to Know the Neuroscience Graduate Program: The SOMA Student Group
Author: Vanessa Parise
Being a graduate student can feel pretty isolating at times, especially since, in many ways, we are still transitioning back from the online activities brought upon by the COVID-19 pandemic. Given that we are used to seeing each other through a little box on our screens, it’s important we come together as a community to share knowledge, be social and most importantly, have fun.
One way in which this is facilitated in the Neuroscience Graduate Program at McMaster is through the Students of the MiNDS Association (SOMA)!
What is SOMA?
The Students of the MiNDS Association (SOMA) is the official student-led graduate association for the Neuroscience Graduate (MiNDS) Program here at McMaster University. SOMA strives to create a sense of community and belonging amongst students in the Neuroscience program regardless of whether you are starting your first year or wrapping up your thesis. The ways in which SOMA aims to foster community is through fun and informative events throughout the academic year catered to all individuals in the program.
Who are the Co-Presidents this year?
Sama Jaberi and Vanessa Parise are your 2024-2025 SOMA Co-Presidents. You may already know who we are but for those that do not, Sama and I are both 1st year PhD students. See below for our formal introductions:
Sama is a 1st year PhD student, under the supervision of Dr. Margaret Fahnestock, investigating the effects of aging on neurotrophins in the basal forebrain. She successfully transferred from her Neuroscience MSc to the Neuroscience PhD in April of 2024. In her down time, Sama likes to paint and listen to soundtracks from musicals!
Vanessa is a 1st year PhD student, under the supervision of Dr. Margaret McKinnon, investigating how sensory processing dysfunction in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) contributes to our current understanding of PTSD symptomology. She defended her Neuroscience MSc thesis in August 2024. In her free time, she likes to play board games and is learning to play Stardew Valley with her partner.
How can I get involved?
The best way to get involved is to be present! Sama and I know how busy life can get and it seems like there's no time to have fun. That is why it’s so important to take some time to step away from the stress of graduate school and spend a few hours every once and a while with like-minded peers.
In addition, if you have the time to spare, Sama and I would love to give the opportunity to any students who are interested in helping to execute some of the SOMA events throughout the year.
If you have any questions, concerns or would like to get involved throughout the year, email us at soma@mcmaster.ca. To keep up with our event schedule, make sure you have joined our discord (please email us if you do not have access to an active link) and have followed us on Instagram @soma.minds.