Sam Brophy
What attracted you to your field?
I’ve had some experience with emergency care before med school, when I worked as a paramedic and taught first-aid. It’s an unparalleled experience – the perfect balance of diagnostic and procedural medicine. It’s also exciting, and immensely satisfying, to treat and comfort people in critical situations.
In 10 years, what UBC moment will you still be talking about?
Despite crazy medical stories and unbelievable adventures with my colleagues, I’ll never forget the IMP’s janitor (or as I call him: the master of maintenance). After studying myself to sleep one night in the Medical Sciences Building, I awoke to him at around 5am. He handed me a freshly brewed coffee, patted me on the back, said nothing, then proceeded to start his work day. A great example of how everyone at the IMP was a cut above.
What’s next for you?
I look forward to pursuing and enriching emergency medicine across Vancouver Island. I want to focus on enhancing interdisciplinary practice and communication in the emergency department. I’m also excited to find ways to get involved with the IMP, specifically with teaching. I look forward to giving back to the program and to the community, both of which have given so much to me.
As you look ahead, what (or who) inspires you?
My dad has always been an amazing mentor. He does not work in medicine, but he’s always been successful in his business pursuits. He’s a smart guy, but I don’t think that’s why he is successful. The way he interacts with colleagues and acquaintances, at all levels and positions, consistently leads to meaningful connection. That’s what I want to do in my career, too.
Name one thing on your bucket list.
Set a world record in something completely useless.
JC Cheng
What attracted you to your field?
We had little exposure to radiation oncology prior to clerkship, and the idea of using radiation to treat cancer totally blew my mind! In addition, the resilience and the positive outlooks you encounter in radiation oncology is a source of constant inspiration. Besides, name another field that blast cancer with highly precise x-rays!
What’s next for you?
I will be heading to Winnipeg (winter is coming) to pursue my residency in radiation oncology. Life has never ceased to surprise me, and I look forward to the adventures that ensue over the next years.
As you look ahead, what (or who) inspires you?
Love and encouragement so kindly given by our mentors, teachers, classmates, and patients. Of course, my dearest family and friends, who’ve never stopped supporting me through my journey. As for additional motivations looking ahead, I can finally start paying off my debt!
Name one thing on your bucket list.
Sky diving! That’ll take the “step-out-of-your-comfort-zone” idea up a notch for me.
Talveen Gill
What attracted you to your field?
I’ve always wanted a career that allowed me to work one-on-one with people, to impact their lives in a meaningful way. This, combined with my love of human physiology and life-long learning, led me to a career in medicine.
In 10 years, what UBC moment will you still be talking about?
Simple moments with my classmates, like walking to class together from our residence building, and celebrating each other’s milestones, like birthdays and weddings.
What’s next for you?
I feel very fortunate to be starting my residency in family medicine in Victoria, my hometown. I’m excited to give back to the community that has given me so much.
As you look ahead, what (or who) inspires you?
I feel inspired by the incredible people who have helped me through this journey. My mother for example, has taught me to be strong and resilient. Her love and kindness has supported me in reaching my goals. I’m also inspired by my peers and mentors in medicine, who remind me every day what an honor it is to be a part of this profession.
Name one thing on your bucket list.
Hike the Swiss Alps! My husband and I will be crossing this item off our list this summer!
Zaakir Jiwa
What attracted you to your field?
I was attracted to family medicine because of its flexibility. It allows me to pursue further training, which I plan on doing, in sports medicine and palliative care. And it gives me the freedom to start my own practice. My ultimate goal is to have a mixed practice, with significant variability in my day-to-day schedule, where I can travel with a sports team, say, or provide care in under-serviced areas.
In 10 years, what UBC moment will you still be talking about?
I will always have fond memories of times with my classmates. Whether it was discussing our hockey pool or designing a logo for our class jerseys, we had a lot of fun together. In addition, I will always remember the kindness that the IMP faculty and staff showed us. Kurt McBurney, for instance, made our anatomy session that much better because of his compassion and care.
What’s next for you?
I’ll be moving to Toronto for residency. I’m very excited to be closer to friends and family on the east coast. My brother Aalim, also a family practice resident, is in Toronto, too. We hope to come back to British Columbia and start a multidisciplinary family and sports medicine clinic.
As you look ahead, what (or who) inspires you?
I am inspired by the emphasis that Canadians, and specifically British Columbians, place on their health. In today’s society, it’s easy to let other priorities take precedent. But in BC, individuals are committed to investing in their own health, and do their best to lead an active lifestyle. I want to help people in this process by not only providing healthcare, but also motivating my patients to reach their full potential.
Name one thing on your bucket list.
To see a high-level professional soccer game. Either a World Cup Final, Champions League Final, or an El-Classico Match.