With a commitment to lifelong learning, Samantha Gauvreau’s research explores the fundamental mechanisms that support learning, and how these insights can be applied in classroom and community settings. By bridging the fields of psychology and education, she aims to help all learners thrive both in the classroom and beyond.
Working closely with supervisor Dr. Karl Szpunar, Gauvreau is investigating the fundamental cognitive mechanisms that underlie successful learning, with the goal of harnessing students with the most effective learning strategies. In particular, they are focusing on understanding how retrieval practice – a powerful strategy in which students test themselves on previously learned information – boosts long-term learning.
“Our hope is to foster meaningful crosstalk between psychology and education by partnering with students and educators to apply these learning strategies in classrooms and schools to help all students succeed,” says Gauvreau.
What inspires your research?
As a mature student returning to academia, I have had the tremendous privilege of pursuing a diverse career that has underscored the value of learning as an essential skill for personal, professional and academic development. Whether through my nearly decade-long experience as a teacher, my work as an analytics consultant or currently as a psychologist-in-training, I have become acutely aware of the countless barriers that impede learning. My research is driven by a commitment to making learning accessible to all students and advocating for their lifelong success. In many ways, my own capacity to learn and develop a rich repertoire of multidisciplinary skills has opened doors to some of my most rewarding opportunities. Through my research, I hope to empower all learners to unlock their full learning potential and confidently shape the future they envision for themselves.
What does it mean to be named a Vanier Scholar?
Echoing past TMU Vanier Scholars, I am so incredibly honoured to be recognized alongside such exceptional student leaders across Canada. By receiving the Vanier Scholarship, I have the freedom and confidence to pursue research I believe is both meaningful and impactful – work that aims to bridge the gap between psychology research and educational practice by bringing the science of learning into real-world classrooms and schools.
“I have felt deeply supported by TMU’s faculty and staff who are genuinely invested in helping me shape a path that aligns with my career aspirations as a clinical psychologist and researcher.”
What advice do you have for Vanier Scholarship applicants?
I feel incredibly fortunate to have received guidance from previous Vanier Scholars, as well as phenomenal mentors and supervisors within TMU’s Psychology Department. When drafting my application, I leaned heavily on this supportive community—not only for their encouragement, but also for their invaluable expertise, which truly strengthened my application. They urged me to start early and helped me hone my overarching message, especially in clearly articulating the “why” behind my research. This iterative process helped me refine my goals and highlight the broader significance of my research. All this to say: as you prepare your own application, I strongly encourage you to seek support and feedback frequently from your own community of mentors and peers.
How is your TMU graduate education preparing you to be career-ready?
From the outset of my graduate studies at TMU, I have felt deeply supported by TMU’s faculty and staff who are genuinely invested in helping me shape a path that aligns with my career aspirations as a clinical psychologist and researcher. With their guidance, I have been able to tailor my coursework, research and clinical practicum experiences to develop the skills and competencies necessary for future success in this field. Most importantly, I also cannot overstate the value of the tremendous mentorship I’ve received from my research and clinical supervisors, whose insights, encouragement and ongoing support have helped prepare me to pursue opportunities that move me closer to the career I envision.
What advice do you have for graduate students?
Returning to graduate school as a mature student has reinforced the importance of having a clear purpose – this vision has given me the stamina to keep going through moments of doubt or overwhelm. However, just as important has been the supportive community of fellow psychology graduate students, who have walked beside me through the tough moments and celebrated every small and big win along the way. You don’t have to navigate graduate school alone – finding your people can make all the difference!
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