Marigrace Gorospe, Pharmacology and Toxicology

Marigrace Gorospe

Full Name: Marigrace Gorospe
Country of Origin: Brampton, Ontario, Canada
Undergraduate Department: Pharmacology & Toxicology

Why Faculty of Medicine?

After first year I did not know what I wanted to specialize in, but the faculty of medicine immediately interested me with the programs they offered. I wanted a program that would challenge me but also still aligned with my passion for science in healthcare. There were a vast number of amazing opportunities provided by the faculty of medicine which would allow me to explore different fields related to my interest, and in turn help delve into what was fit for me.

Why this Department?
Admittedly, I had picked the Pharmacology and Toxicology department on a whim, but thankfully had become one of the best choices I could ever make. I think of Pharmacology and Toxicology as a 2-sided coin: We study the beneficial effects of drugs and medications while also taking into account adverse effects and toxic substances. The mechanism of action and physiological effects for various drugs immediately piqued my interest. The Pharmacology and Toxicology program opens various doors in the sense that this knowledge can help us to understand not only how to treat certain conditions and diseases, but how they can arise as well.

Current Research Experience
Working with Dr. Leonardo Salmena in the Pharmacology and Toxicology department has been a great experience for me. My project encompasses the study of how medications such as Perhexiline derivatives (angina medication) may be used to kill leukemia cells through fatty acid oxidation inhibition in conjunction with other widely used cancer therapeutics. My experience thus far has helped me to understand the scientific method in better detail and to appreciate what research has to offer in an academic setting.

Future Education plans and/or career goals

My plan after undergraduate studies is Pharmacy school. Many believe those who enter into the Pharmacology and Toxicology program plan to go to Pharmacy – which isn’t necessarily true. My interest for pharmacy only became prevalent after 3rd year when I started exploring my career options. I learned that research may not necessarily be for me and I appreciate an environment working in teams with people. That led me to Pharmacy which would give an appreciation for application of my studies and patient interaction as well. While Pharmacy school is my current goal, I am still keeping my mind open to other fields as well.