Chandler Blokland

Year 1 (Class of 2028)
Hometown: Prince George, B.C.

What inspired you to pursue your program?
My passion for medicine began with a Fisher-Price doctor kit I received as a child. This early fascination grew into a deep interest in the human body and a desire to help others. Volunteering as a firefighter and crisis line responder further fueled my commitment to a medical career. These roles taught me the importance of empathy and resilience. Now, as a student in the Northern Medical Program, I am eager to combine my knowledge and compassion to make a meaningful impact in healthcare

Why did you choose UBC/NMP?
I chose UBC/NMP because this city [Prince George] is my home. I was born, raised, worked, and volunteered here, and I have always felt a deep connection to this community. I wanted to continue making a positive impact and be influenced by the vibrant and supportive environment that has shaped me. UBC/NMP offers the perfect opportunity to give back to the place that has given me so much, while pursuing my passion for medicine.

What are you most looking forward to this year?
I am most looking forward to finally diving into medicine after many years of preparation. This year marks the culmination of my hard work and dedication, and I am excited to immerse myself in the field I am passionate about. The opportunity to apply my knowledge and skills in real-world settings is something I have eagerly anticipated, and I am ready to embrace the challenges and rewards that come with it.

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Jamie Tersago

Year 3 (Class of 2026)
Hometown: Smithers, B.C.

What inspired you to pursue your program?
During high school and university, I developed a strong passion for biology, anatomy and physiology. After completing my degree, I worked in health and safety at a remote gold mine, where I realized my desire for a more direct role in patient care. The emphasis on lifelong learning, the variety of tasks, and the opportunity to continually challenge myself were key factors that drew me to the field of medicine.

Why did you choose UBC/NMP?
I have been fortunate to live in B.C. for most of my life and plan to practice here in the future. With its stunning mountains, lakes, and forests, B.C. provides the perfect backdrop for my favourite activities, such as trail running, downhill skiing and paddleboarding. I chose UBC’s distributed medical program because it offers the opportunity to study at a top-ranked medical school while staying close to my family and friends.

What are you most looking forward to this year?
This year, I’m completing my third-year clerkship at the Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops, where my family resides, after I spent my first two years of medical school in Prince George. Living together with my family again has been wonderful, and I believe their support will help me navigate the challenges and successes of clerkship. As an independent learner, I’m excited to work directly with patients to further develop my patient care skills, with a focus on fostering compassion and inclusivity.

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Carmen Huang

Year 4 (Class of 2025)
Hometown: Quesnel, B.C.

What inspired you to pursue your program?
My decision to pursue medicine was deeply inspired by my family doctor, my curiosity about science, and a strong desire to help others. During high school, my grandmother was diagnosed with cancer, and my family faced the challenges of navigating her diagnosis and palliative care in just a few months. Throughout this turbulence, my family doctor was a constant source of stability, knowledge and reassurance. Their care and compassion made me want to help others in the same manner. From that moment, I knew that I also wanted to be a beacon of light that people can turn to.

Why did you choose UBC/NMP?
UBC and NMP were natural choices for me. I love how the UBC medical program has distributed sites because it allows students to immerse themselves in their smaller cohort, faculty and the local community. By choosing NMP, I was able to stay close to home while also strengthening my northern ties. The 3rd year clerkship experience through NMP was particularly appealing because of the endless one-on-one learning opportunities and the ability to build excellent longitudinal rapport with patients and staff.

What are you most looking forward to this year?
This year, I am most excited about the new experiences and connections this year will bring. Fourth year is a pivotal time in medical school as it shapes the trajectory of our future careers. I am eager to travel across B.C. and Canada to learn from a diverse range of mentors and colleagues. By year’s end, I aim to be a stronger clinician, equipped with insights and knowledge that will enhance my residency journey. And as a bonus, I look forward to discovering the best pastry and noodle shops along the way!