Constance-Marguerite Proulx and Nadine Cheffi, two 2025 graduates, are very good examples of this. One, a sociologist to be, explores systemic barriers in politics. The other, a future ophthalmologist, advocates for more inclusive medicine.
Both show how graduate studies can fuel real action, both on a personal and community level.
Research that advances social justice
Constance-Marguerite Proulx started a master’s in sociology with a specialization in feminist and gender studies in fall 2021. Early on, she became interested in social justice and applied research.
Her research paper on underrepresentation of racialized women in Quebec politics took shape based on her experience in student politics, where she saw a pressing need for diversity: “I found that too little research dealt with the experience of women in politics in all their diversity.”
Her analysis, rooted in an intersectional perspective, highlights the obstacles female candidates experienced during the 2022 election campaign: questioning of their skills by the public, the media and their own party; lack of party support; challenging ridings; and insufficient material and human resources.
She believes that community trust and support remain essential in these women’s journeys.
Among the memories that stand out for her, Constance-Marguerite brings up her first job as a teaching assistant and, especially, her research paper defence: “It was one of the most stressful times — but also among the most gratifying — in my years at university. Presenting the results of my research was a real honour.” She would now like to pursue a career researching social inequality and offers this encouragement to students: “Make the most of your courses! Find someone whose support style suits you.”
“It was one of the most stressful times — but also among the most gratifying — in my years at university. Presenting the results of my research was a real honour.”
Constance-Marguerite Proulx
— Master’s in sociology
Excellence in health care and community service
Nadine Cheffi has spent seven years at the University of Ottawa, from a bachelor of science to an MD. “Ottawa is home,” she says. “I’ve had the chance to benefit from bilingualism, proximity to family and many opportunities for mentorship, research and volunteering.“
Her student experience is notable for its balance between academic rigour and concrete action. She’s conducted research on treatment of stroke, mindfulness-based medical education and minority representation in ophthalmology. “It’s a subject I care deeply about as a racialized woman,” she says.
Her papers have been published in speciality journals. She’s also taken part in projects to improve interdisciplinary collaboration, including between residents in emergency medicine and ophthalmology. “It was nice to work with my mentors and an outstanding team,” she says.
For Nadine, the key part of her experience has been the human connection: “There are people I’ve met who’ve made my experience unforgettable.” She invites new cohorts to get out of their comfort zone, get involved and take all the opportunities the University offers them to fully grow: “Never be afraid to jump right in, ask questions and make the most of the resources the University offers.”
Nadine will soon start a residency in ophthalmology in Ottawa: “I’m super excited to be continuing here. I’m going to be specializing in eye surgery and vision health.”
“There are people I’ve met who’ve made my experience unforgettable.”
Nadine Cheffi
— MD
Studying at uOttawa: A springboard for engagement
Constance-Marguerite’s and Nadine’s paths show that the University of Ottawa is a place where research, community action and mutual support allow you to advance while contributing to society.
Their stories prove that the University isn’t just a place of learning, but also of openness and questioning, one where everyone can help build a fairer, more inclusive future.
