What are you studying at LMP and why are you interested in studying it?
I am currently a PGY-4 resident in the Anatomical Pathology Residency program. My interest in pathology developed during my studies in the undergraduate Pathobiology Specialist program and my Master’s program in LMP. I had been intrigued by the various LMP undergraduate courses such as Neuropathology and Neoplasia. As such, I was immediately motivated to dive deeper into understanding pathogenesis and disease mechanisms.
What is the most interesting thing you’ve done, seen or got involved with while at LMP?
I have an interest in Dermatopathology and during my residency, I have been working on a project under the guidance of Dr. Zaid Saeed-Kamil. Melanocytic lesions are a diagnostically challenging area in dermpath, especially those with borderline features on morphology. We investigated immunohistochemical biomarkers that would help distinguish malignant from benign lesions. So far our results look promising and we were able to present it at the United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology annual meeting this year.
What was the best career advice you ever received?
Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Trying new things makes you expand your skills, knowledge and horizon.
What has been an important learning experience in your life?
An important learning experience has been time management and how to balance my personal life and my professional life. As a resident physician with a young family, being organized allows me to handle the demands of residency, research, my family life, and any unexpected tasks that may arise.
Who is an influential person in your life and why?
My mother is definitely an influential person in my life. She is a first generation immigrant. I witnessed and learned from her the value of hard work, grit and perseverance.
What would it surprise people to know about you?
I don’t think there is anything surprising about me. I am fairly open with my colleagues.
What activities do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I enjoy spending time outdoors, whether hiking or just going for a walk surrounded by nature. Having a very active four-year-old son, we have spent most of our summers exploring almost every park in the city!
What is your favourite album, film and novel?
Album: I don’t have one.
Film: I personally have many favourites! But the Jurassic Park series are our family’s favourite.
Novel: The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
Who would be your dream dinner guests?
Marie Curie, Albert Einstein, and Dr. A. Bernard Ackerman
Where/what is your favourite place?
The Canadian Rockies. I spent a lot of time exploring and hiking various trails during medical school.
If you were stuck on a deserted island but had all your basic needs taken care of (i.e. food and water), what two items would you bring with you and why?
I would like access to a communications device such as a phone or a radio to connect with my family.
