Robby Yoshiro Williams-Sekiguchi

I chose to go to SFU as I loved the idea of going to school in a scenic area with the trees and being atop of a mountain. It also happened to be one of the closest schools to my home. I also heard great things about the Chemistry program, the faculty, and the resources they provide for a student’s future such as continuing into graduate studies or finding your career in industry.

I would describe my research to a family member as growing crystals and shooting them with x-rays. From a general perspective, I would describe it as being beneficial and making a contribution to the scientific field and knowledge.

I particularly am enjoying conducting x-ray diffraction experiments on the crystal products I synthesize in my research. The thought of being able to obtain a molecular structure and identify what atoms are present in my product just by shooting x-rays is simply amazing and mind-boggling.

My advice to a student who is curious about undergraduate research is to not be afraid to reach out to any of the faculty whose research interests you. I personally think that I had waited too long to start my research as I wish that I could have learned the skills I have now a few years ago. It would have built the confidence and vast skill set I have now much earlier in my studies, which could then be integrated into my academic courses.