Does Hank Green have a habit of popping up on your TikTok feed, and you actually watch to the end? Do you have a special place in your heart for Mr. DNA, the animated character who explained cloning in the classic Jurassic Park movies? Have you ever gone down a Wikipedia or YouTube rabbit hole about scientific breakthroughs mentioned in the news?
You may just have the science spark! People who naturally gravitate toward science are endlessly curious about the world around them. They love solving puzzles and figuring out how things work. Biotechnology might be the answer you’re looking for.
Biotechnology is where scientific curiosity meets real-world applications, offering incredible opportunities to innovate across industries like health, agriculture and environmental sustainability. But how do you know if this field is truly for you? Take this quick quiz to find out.
Quick quiz: Is biotech calling your name?
Answer “Yes” or “No” to find out!
- Do you enjoy figuring out how things work, especially in nature or living systems?
- Are you excited by the idea of working in a lab, conducting experiments and using specialized equipment?
- Does the thought of contributing to solutions for real-world problems around health, environment or food production appeal to you?
- Are you comfortable with detailed, precise work and analyzing information?
- Do you have a continuous curiosity to learn new things and adapt to new discoveries?
If you answered “Yes” to most of these questions, biotechnology could be an incredibly rewarding and exciting path for you! Keep reading to find out how this career path aligns with your love of science, as seen through the eyes of Biotechnology students at Mohawk College.
1. You're curious and always ask “why”
At its core, science is about asking questions and seeking answers. If you’re constantly wondering “why” and “how,” you have the key trait of a budding biotechnologist. This inquisitive nature often stems from a fascination with the natural world and how living systems operate.
As Liam Grieve shares, his journey began with a deep connection to nature:
"When I was pretty young my family bought a cottage up north, and I would actually go and live there in the summers. That connection with nature and the inquisitive mindset that came with it—trying to figure out what’s there and what all those living organisms are doing—is what really led me down that path. And that ties into biotechnology, because I really wanted to figure out how living systems work and what exactly is happening to make the world turn.”
This inherent drive to explore and comprehend the intricacies of life is fundamental to success in biotechnology.
2. You excel in problem-solving situations
If you enjoy actively tackling challenges, building things, and seeing theories come to life, biotechnology offers an engaging environment. It's a field built on experimentation and practical application.
Liam McGrath highlights this hands-on appeal:
“The very hands-on approach of everything was really great. I loved being in the lab. It makes you feel very prepared for the workplace.”
Similarly, Liam Grieve points out the value of working with industry-standard equipment:
“Working with industry standard equipment in the labs is super important. It really helps you get a grasp on what you might actually be doing in the workforce.”
If the idea of working in a lab with scientific tools seems exciting, this is probably a career path worth exploring.
3. You want to make a difference in the world
The idea of uncovering new information or contributing to significant advancements is a major motivator for many who love science. In biotechnology, this translates to the potential to make a real-world difference, from developing new medicines to creating sustainable solutions.
As Juan Cordoba passionately explained:
“Mohawk College grads are well positioned, academically and professionally, to affect the environment in a positive way.”
If the thought of contributing to a healthier planet or improving human lives ignites your passion, biotechnology offers a clear path to turn that aspiration into reality.
4. You appreciate logical thinking
Science requires careful observation and methodical approaches. If you enjoy organizing information, analyzing data, and following precise procedures, these skills are highly valued in biotechnology. From conducting experiments to interpreting results, attention to detail is critical.
5. You embrace new concepts and knowledge
The field of biotechnology is constantly evolving, requiring a continuous appetite for learning. If you get excited by new knowledge and enjoy expanding your understanding of complex ideas, you'll feel right at home.
As Lucy Hubert wisely advises:
“Just make sure you ask as many questions as you have. Don't be afraid to reach out to people. Your professors are more than willing to help you. Your classmates probably have the same questions as you. And don't be afraid to, you know, experiment with things.”
This collaborative mindset and eagerness to absorb new information is key. Liam Grieve further notes that the program:
“really sets you up well because you are getting those hands-on skills, but then you're also being able to stretch your mind and keep learning in the classroom.”
Is biotechnology your future?
If these signs resonate with you, and you're eager to combine your scientific curiosity with practical skills and a desire to make a tangible impact, then Biotechnology at Mohawk College could be the perfect fit. Our programs, whether you choose Biotechnology (370) or Biotechnology – Advanced (671), are designed to prepare you for a rewarding career in this vital and ever-expanding field.
Published June 11, 2025
