An NC alumna is celebrating a major milestone in her academic journey, one that began at NC and has since led to exciting research work around the world.
Helen McNish, a former international student from Durham, U.K. (Pre-Health Sciences (College) program, 2017 and Fitness and Health Promotion program, 2019), was recently published in the Journal of the Federation of American Societies of Experimental Biology (FASEB). Her research focuses on the effects of blue light on mitochondrial DNA in skin, a study with the potential for understanding the aging process and skin health.
Her academic journey began at NC, where her time as an international student helped shape the path she is on today.
“Before I started my journey at the College, I didn’t believe I was capable of university-level study,” said McNish. “But NC gave me the confidence I needed. The foundation of knowledge that I gained provided the perfect springboard into the next phase of my academic journey.”
After completing her studies at NC, McNish returned to the U.K. where she earned a B.Sc. in Physiological Sciences with first-class honours from Newcastle University. She is now nearing the completion of her PhD in Molecular Dermatology at the same institution.
McNish credits NC, and in particularly the Pre-Health Sciences program, with sparking her interest in science.
“In high school, I had little interest in science, preferring foreign languages and humanities,” she said. “But with excellent teaching and lots of motivation, science became my passion. I cannot speak highly enough about the teaching and support I received from all the faculty in NC’s Pre-Health Sciences program. Without them, my academic success would not have been possible.”
As an international student, McNish faced the challenge of adapting to a new country. NC’s International Department, however, helped her feel supported from day one.
“The homestay arrangement that Niagara College offers provided me with stability and a great environment to focus on my studies,” she said. “The International Department was a key pillar of support, and the events and excursions helped me make friends.”
She also participated in the NC Seafood Gala, which she describes as an exceptional way to recognize academic achievement within the international student community.
McNish’s recent research examines how blue light affects skin at a cellular level. Her publication includes new findings showing that blue light can induce mitochondrial DNA damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, contributing to the skin aging process.
“To be published in the Journal of the Federation of American Societies of Experimental Biology is something I am very proud of,” said McNish. “It’s fantastic to see many years of hard work come to fruition.”
Reflecting on her journey, from working in a local supermarket in Durham to earning a PhD in Molecular Dermatology, McNish hopes her story inspires others to follow their academic dreams.
“It is never too late to follow your dreams,” she said. “If you study hard and are determined, anything is possible. Even if the journey is long, it’s worth it in the end.”
View Helen McNish’s Federation of American Societies of Experimental Biology entry here: The FASEB Journal – 2025 – McNish – The Effect of Blue Light on Mitochondria in Human Dermal Fibroblasts and the Potential.
