September 12, 2024 – Amber-Lyn May is a member of the Tahltan First Nation, a dedicated player on the Laurentian women’s basketball team, and a diligent student aspiring to attend medical school. She is currently in her fourth year of Forensic Science at Laurentian University. In addition to her rigorous training schedule, Amber-Lyn manages her lab work, academic studies, and preparation for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) with passion and drive. She is motivated by her desire to be a role model for Indigenous youth.
Amber-Lyn was born in Northern B.C. and grew up in Calgary, Alberta in a big family with ten siblings. She made the move to Sudbury for Laurentian’s forensics program and basketball team. It was Head Coach Jason Hurley’s coaching style that drew the guard to the team and she has appreciated her time as a Voyageur above all else during her time at Laurentian.
When asked what has had the most impact on her throughout her Laurentian experience, Amber-Lyn was confident in her answer. “Definitely being a part of the LU basketball team. I grew up in a rough area and my family faced challenges, so traveling across the country to play university basketball has been an incredible opportunity that has really shaped me. I have felt so supported at Laurentian. Jason Hurley, my coach, is caring but disciplined and driven like I am. He pushes me to set and reach my goals.”
Like many student-athletes, Amber-Lyn’s schedule is full, especially in the sciences with lab work on top of training and academics. She is a fan of the lab, viewing it as enriching rather than challenging and a keystone of why she chose Laurentian for its forensic science program.
“The labs here are great because they’re so hands-on – we touch and experience what we’re learning about, rather than just talking about it. The forensics program at Laurentian is known to be one of the best in Canada. I appreciate that my professors have first-hand experience in the field and I have learned so much from them.” She describes examining bullets and blood spatter, emphasizing how helpful and interesting it is to be able to learn in such a practical way.
As a student Amber-Lyn is driven to inspire other Indigenous youth. “Competing at this level of basketball and meeting high academic standards, I want to represent my community and encourage other Indigenous youth to achieve their goals,” she says.
Looking ahead to her career Amber-Lyn is motivated to add Indigenous representation to Forensic Pathology in Canada. “As an Indigenous woman, I want to have a positive impact on my community. As a forensic pathologist with a connection to our culture, I want to make a difference for missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. I want to be able to offer closure to the families.”
Ready to start her final year at Laurentian, and her sights set on medical school, Amber-Lyn is preparing to take her MCAT. On the court, she’s already busy training in preparation for the upcoming basketball season.
The Laurentian University Women’s Basketball team plays their home opener against the University of Toronto on October 25th.