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Dr. Rashmi Venkateswaran
Senior Instructor/Undergraduate Chemistry Laboratory Coordinator
What is your most important function at the University and why?
I teach the first-year students general chemistry and I coordinate the undergraduate laboratories for first-year students taking chemistry. This is the largest prerequisite course/lab for students interested in science, engineering, life sciences and medicine.
What inspires you most about your job?
Learning how to make students to see that everything around them involves chemistry. I enjoy teaching students how chemistry contributes to their daily lives, and helping them make informed decisions.
How did you come to your area of research?
I was inspired by the work of my mentor and supervisor, Dr. Margaret Back, and was also interested in how to make efficient and cost-saving use of the vast methane reserves we have in Canada.
What are you most proud of?
I am most proud of my family. I have two lovely children, an 11-year old son, Amaresh and a 1-year old daughter, Nikhila and an amazing husband, Hari, who works for the federal government.
Who is the most influential person in your life?
My father because he always encouraged me to continue my higher studies and has always been supportive of my career and family.
What would your co-workers be most surprised to know about you?
I am also a professional musician. I sing classical Indian music and jazz as well as light classical Indian music.
What is the quality you value the most?
Patience. With patience, you can accomplish anything!
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Right here, teaching at the University!
What is your greatest hope for the future?
My greatest hope for the future is that my students will use what I have helped them learn to change the world for the better.
