Nicola Yip

Moving to Canada from Hong Kong in Grade 9 to start a new life as a Havergal student, Nicola was pleasantly surprised to make an instant connection with her future best friend in her first class on day one. Academically, her focus centred on the sciences, anchored by a deep interest in biology. She earned her Grade 11 Biology credit through a program at the Toronto Zoo for a month during the summer, where she shadowed zookeepers, learned how to care for the animals and observed them in their enclosures. The experience solidified Nicola’s determination to pursue a degree in veterinary medicine. Working with Havergal’s Guidance Department, she connected with Havergal alumni who were veterinarians, leading to invaluable volunteer and mentorship opportunities. Co-curricularly, she was a competitive mid-distance swimmer outside of Havergal and on the school’s team. She also played the bassoon with the band throughout her four years and served as a Senior Year President in her graduating year. Nicola is currently studying veterinary medicine and surgery at the Royal Veterinary College in London, UK, with the ultimate dream of working in wildlife conservation and rehabilitation.