Gaganjit Phulka

Year 1 (Class of 2026)
Hometown: Abbotsford, BC

What inspired you to pursue medicine?
My inspiration for pursuing medicine was twofold. Growing up as a second-generation Canadian I would often attend doctor's appointments with my parents and grandparents to help with translation; these experiences exposed me to the role of a physician and also inspired me from a young age to be a health care provider. I would later pursue a career as a Registered Nurse; it was here while serving alongside amazing physicians that I was inspired and encouraged to expand my scope and pursue a career in medicine. 

Why did you choose UBC/ Northern Medical Program?
I have always loved the outdoors, I grew up in a small farming community in Matsqui Prairie which is based out of Abbotsford, BC. My father is a tree farmer and I have fond memories of working alongside my siblings, grafting and taping fruit and flowering trees. When I decided to pursue medicine I knew that the NMP would allow me to continue to enjoy the outdoors and provide me with the same small-knit community feeling that I grew up loving. Another major reason I pursued the NMP was because of my work as an RN with Seabird Island Band; it was here while working alongside amazing health care leaders and serving as a nurse in smaller communities that I discovered a passion for rural health care. Therefore, choosing NMP was an easy choice as I knew it would continue to expose me to rural communities and also allow me to continue to learn from leaders in rural medicine. 

What’s top on your bucket list?
I would love to travel to Italy; my bucket list would include anywhere I could get the best espresso and pasta.

Hayden Pon

Year 2 (Class of 2025)
Hometown: Prince George, BC

What inspired you to pursue medicine?
There are a few factors that inspired me to pursue medicine. Of course, there is the fascination with human biology and all the science behind the field, but the biggest factor for me is the relational experience. Medicine provides a unique opportunity for connection with individuals in very complex situations. It’s a very special thing to bear witness to these situations and to be able work alongside these individuals who are often at their most vulnerable. Having had a previous career in nursing allowed me to explore the relational aspect of healthcare in a much more meaningful way, and really encouraged me that medicine was the right path. 

Why did you choose UBC/Northern Medical Program?
Prince George has always been home for me. I was born and raised here, did my undergraduate degree in nursing here, and worked as a registered nurse both at the University Hospital of Northern British Columbia and at the University of Northern British Columbia. For me, it really only made sense to have this be the place to learn medicine. Though there is much to be said about going somewhere else and experiencing a new setting, I think such a strong familiarity with the local community will help tremendously as I learn this practice. Not to mention you are provided a range of diverse, hands-on experiences, and have a much smaller and close-knit class at the Northern Medical Program.

What’s top on your bucket list?
I’d love to do some big-wall rock climbing in Yosemite Valley. This particular goal is one that seems so unattainable, but is the most fascinating to me. I’ve been a rock-climber for a long time, but have never done anything of that magnitude. 

Alix Wells    

Year 3 (Class of 2024)
Hometown: Prince George, BC

What inspired you to pursue medicine?
I chose medicine for a variety of reasons. My initial interest was sparked by my enjoyment of anatomy and physiology courses in university. Further, through volunteering, I was able to meet diverse groups of people with unique stories which I found very rewarding. I believe that medicine marries science and human connection perfectly. Additionally, I grew up doing competitive athletics and sustained several MSK injuries. I saw first-hand how physicians and surgeons, along with other allied health professionals, were able to restore function to me and my competitors which I believe to be a privilege.

Why did you choose UBC/ Northern Medical Program?
There were many reasons I was drawn to the NMP including growing up in Prince George, NMP’s small class size, esteemed faculty, and opportunity for hands-on clinical experiences. Three months into clerkship and the NMP is living up to all of this. 

What’s top on your bucket list?
Between 2nd and 3rd year I had the opportunity to travel to Europe. During this time, the length of my bucket-list grew significantly as there were so many other places I did not have time to see. Next up on the bucket list is the Amalfi Coast in Italy to enjoy endless gelato.

Ryan Medhurst

Year 4 (Class of 2023)
Hometown: Fenelon Fall, ON

What inspired you to pursue medicine?
Being a doctor has been a dream of mine for a long time. I’ve always loved physiology and anatomy and I think it is an amazing privilege to be able to apply a passion like that to a career that has the potential of doing so much good for others. This program has provided excellent training in a challenging and ever-changing field. I have been able to do and see so much through this program that I never would have imagined starting out. 

Why did you choose UBC/ Northern Medical Program?
The Northern Medical Program was right for me because it gives you access to rural medicine while still exposing you to everything a medical school in a larger city offers. I am passionate about rural and remote healthcare, and I was looking for an impactful way to give back to communities that supported me growing up. The NMP offered the opportunity to serve communities in the north while getting a well-rounded education. I am very excited to return to northern and rural communities and to gain experience in the unique and diverse healthcare settings that are found across the north.

What’s top on your bucket list?
Graduate. *Knock on wood*. Four years is flying by and while I’m nervous for the next stage I am very excited to graduate.