Back to School 2023: Meet some of our students!
Meet some of our students at the Northern Medical Program who have started their 2023-24 school year studies!
Alisha Thapar
Year 1 (Class of 2027)
Hometown: Quesnel, B.C.
What inspired you to pursue your program?
I was inspired to pursue medicine as I am passionate about forming meaningful connections with patients while advocating for their health and wellness. Through medicine, I will be able to work with marginalized populations and be a leader within my community. As a current registered nurse, I have been able to see the positive impact that health care professionals have on patients firsthand and I believe that through pursuing medicine, I will be able to continue to do this as a current medical student and future physician.
Why did you choose UBC/NMP?
Growing up in the small town of Quesnel, BC and being a part of the close-knit community was a driving force that led me to choosing the Northern Medical Program. I enjoyed the incredible experiences and connections I had formed there during my childhood, and I wanted to return to Northern BC to practice as a future physician here. I value the smaller class size and the sense of community that is felt in the NMP. After completing my undergraduate degree at UNBC, I cannot wait to continue my education in the same community.
If you could travel anywhere in B.C. where would you go and why?
If I could travel anywhere in BC, I would go to Yoho National Park because it is a beautiful place to explore. The wilderness surrounding the area is truly remarkable. There are many hikes in the park that vary in difficulty level which makes it inclusive for everyone. Visiting Yoho National Park has been on my bucket list for years and I hope to plan a trip there in the future.
Joelle Regier
Year 1 (Class of 2027)
Hometown: Vernon, BC
What inspired you to pursue your program?
I have always been in love with the field of healthcare as I grew up around it, understand the in and outs, and loved the scientific basis of healthcare. Originally, I was aiming for optometry when I began my undergrad, but quickly realized that I didn’t want to hold myself to only looking at one bodily system for the rest of my life, but instead to study all the systems and their interconnections. The variability of a day in medicine also appeals to me as I can get somewhat complacent in a traditional Monday to Friday, 9 to 5 job.
Why did you choose UBC/NMP?
I specifically chose UBC and the NMP for the Rural Medical Program that they offer. This is quite unique to UBC, and as someone who grew up in rural towns, I couldn’t wait to get back to my roots in the North. The great part about the NMP is that all of the students here are in rural seats, and so you automatically have a built in connection and common goal with your classmates.
If you could travel anywhere in BC, where would you go and why?
I would go to Daajing Giids on Haida Gwaii as I grew up there, and it has been years since I have been back. I am long overdue for another trip! It has such a unique environment that makes it a bucket list trip for many people, and I was once lucky enough to call it home.
Braden Penner
Year 2 (Class of 2026)
Hometown: Salmon Arm, B.C.
What inspired you to pursue your program?
I was inspired to pursue medicine because I saw my parents working in health care as a nurse and a paramedic. I heard stories of the positive impact they were making in our community and how they felt it was a privilege to support sick and vulnerable community members. I completed my nursing degree as a first step, which only solidified my goal of wanting to become a doctor.
Why did you choose UBC/NMP?
I’m from British Columbia and I chose UBC because it gave me the opportunity to study medicine in Prince George: the community where I have learned, worked and now call home. UBC has allowed me this amazing opportunity to learn at a world-leading institution, but in a small-town environment.
If you could travel anywhere in B.C. where would you go and why?
I would like to travel back to Haida Gwaii. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to travel there this past May with the Healthcare Travelling Roadshow and I really enjoyed the communities, culture and climate. I would bring my family along to share the experience with them and to explore local shops and restaurants, spend time in nature, and visit sites including the Pesuta Shipwreck and the “Balance Rock.”
Sonia Kandola
Year 3 (Class of 2025)
Hometown: Prince George, B.C.
What inspired you to pursue your program?
I knew a career in healthcare would be perfect for me considering it would merge my fascination with science and desire for human interaction. However, my pursuit for medicine was rooted in my own personal experiences that reflected some of the many barriers and challenges that prevent individuals from receiving adequate medical attention. From difficulties with understanding the English language and medical terminology to challenges based on geography and resource allocation. Overall, the MD program would not only provide me with the skill set to provide and advocate medical aid but also the opportunity to impact and learn from others.
Why did you choose UBC/NMP?
As someone born and raised in Prince George, NMP was most definitely the perfect fit. I get to take advantage of the smaller class size and opportunity for hands-on experience while remaining close to the community that shaped me into the person I am today. Additionally, it has been heartwarming to join the line of incredible individuals who are not only local to Prince George but members of the local Sikh community as well.
If you could travel anywhere in B.C. where would you go and why?
I am truly mesmerized by the ocean, so if I had to go anywhere in BC I would choose to go to Vancouver Island. I still haven’t truly explored there yet so it would be on my top places to go and also give me the opportunity to check off my bucket list item of learning how to surf.
Keanna Woidak
Year 4 (Class of 2024)
What inspired you to pursue your program?
My pursuit of medicine stems from an unshakable passion to understand the complexities of life and serve a higher purpose. Witnessing the profound impact of healthcare, I'm compelled to be a driving force to affect change. The opportunity to marry scientific knowledge with empathy aligns perfectly with my values. The ever-evolving nature of medicine promises continuous growth and the chance to contribute meaningfully to society. It isn't just about becoming a doctor; it's about embodying empathy, embracing innovation, and nurturing a lifelong commitment to understanding, healing, and helping all walks of life.
Why did you choose UBC/NMP?
I choose the Northern Medical Program to intertwine my passion for healthcare with my love for remote, close-knit communities. The allure of serving in the beautiful landscapes of the north, while addressing the unique medical challenges that arise there, captivated me. This path not only promises profound medical exposure but also offers a chance to make a tangible difference in underserved areas. The program's emphasis on holistic care, resourcefulness, and cultural sensitivity resonates deeply with my values. Through this journey, I aspire to forge lasting connections, broaden my skills, and contribute meaningfully to the well-being of these remarkable communities.
If you could travel anywhere in B.C. where would you go and why?
Travelling to Haida Gwaii captivates my spirit with its rich indigenous culture, untamed natural beauty, and profound historical significance. Haida Gwaii promises a transformative exploration of ancient Haida traditions and contemporary indigenous life. The towering totem poles, lush rainforests, and rugged shores evoke a deep sense of connection with both the land and its people. By immersing myself in this unique blend of heritage and environment, I seek to absorb wisdom from the past, engage with the present, and forge a meaningful connection that echoes through my understanding of our province.
