Health Sciences Graduate Student Association (HSGSA)

The Health Sciences Graduate Student Association (HSGSA) at McMaster University is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting graduate students across all departments within the Faculty of Health Sciences. Since its establishment in 1996, the HSGSA has focused on fostering collaboration, professional growth, and community engagement, making it a cornerstone of the Health Sciences graduate experience.

Our Mission

  • Promote open communication and interdisciplinary collaboration among students.

  • Offer professional and academic development opportunities.

  • Create a welcoming community through engaging events and social activities.

  • Represent Health Sciences graduate students in university decision-making processes.


We work to ensure that every graduate student feels supported throughout their academic journey, both personally and professionally.

Awards

The HSGSA recognizes outstanding contributions to the academic, professional, and teaching communities within the Faculty of Health Sciences. Our awards celebrate excellence and inspire innovation among students and faculty alike.


HSGSA Impact Award

Awarded to graduate students who have significantly impacted the academic or professional community through:

  • Original published research.

  • Innovative practicum placements.

  • Contributions that drive meaningful change within their field.


Excellence in Open Communication & Collaboration Award

This award honors students who demonstrate exceptional collaboration across programs, departments, or disciplines, fostering a culture of interdisciplinary research and shared knowledge.

Eligibility:

  • Nomination form, CV, and a minimum of one letter of support are required.


Excellence in Graduate Student Supervision Award

Recognizes faculty members who provide outstanding mentorship and support to Health Sciences graduate students.


Excellence in Graduate Teaching Award

Honors faculty members for exceptional teaching and dedication to advancing student learning within Health Sciences Graduate Programs.

Mentorship Program

The Health Sciences Mentorship Program (HSMP), a collaboration with the Medical Science Mentorship Group (MSMG), is designed to ease the transition for first- and second-year graduate students. This peer-to-peer mentoring initiative connects mentees with experienced upper-year mentors to provide personalized guidance and support.


Program Highlights

  • Confidential Support: Discuss academic, professional, and personal challenges in a safe, non-judgmental space.

  • Skill Development: Receive advice on time management, career planning, and navigating relationships with supervisors or labs.

  • Community Building: Join a supportive network of peers who share similar experiences.


How It Works:

  1. For Mentees: Sign up to be matched with a mentor who can guide you through your graduate journey. Sign Up Here

  2. For Mentors: Share your experiences and support incoming students. Apply Here


For more information, email us at hsgradmentors@gmail.com.

Our Team

Executive Team

  • Co-Presidents:

    • Sarah Medeiros, Medical Sciences, PhD Candidate

    • Nirushi Kuhathasan, Neuroscience, PhD Candidate


  • Co-VPs of Internal Affairs

    • Vanessa De Rubeis, Health Research Methodology, PhD candidate

    • Jaskirat Arora, Medical Sciences, PhD Candidate


  • Co-VPs of Finance

    • Mikaela Eng, Medical Sciences,  PhD Candidate

    • Tushar Dhawan, Medical Sciences,  PhD Candidate


  • Co-VPs of Communication

    • Ana Maria Ilicic, Rehabilitation Sciences, Masters

    • Jordyn Perry, Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Masters

    • Pauneez Sadri, Public Health, Masters

    • Vaishna Kumaran, Medical Sciences, Masters


  • Co-VPs of Events

    • Agata Kieliszek, Biochemistry, Masters

    • Meghan Lees, Occupational Therapy, Masters

    • Japnit Dham, Medical Sciences, Masters

    • Ganeem Junej, Medical Sciences, Masters

    • Amirahmad Azhieh, Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Masters


GSA Representatives

  • Ana Portillo, Medical Sciences, PhD Candidate

  • Zarwa Saqib, Medical Sciences, PhD Candidate

Get Involved

Interested in becoming part of the HSGSA leadership team or joining one of our programs? We’d love to have you!


  • Executive Committee Roles: Nominations open in April for roles such as Co-Presidents, Vice Presidents, and GSA Representatives.

  • Collaborations: Partner with us for events that enhance the graduate student experience.


Contact Us:

  • Email: hsgsa@mcmaster.ca

  • Office Hours: Monday - Thursday, 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

  • Location: 1280 Main St. West, Refectory Rathskeller Building, East Tower, 2nd Floor, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L7


Let us help you make the most of your graduate experience!