Q. Describe your proudest moment as a teacher, who was the student(s) and why was it such a special moment.
My proudest moment as a teacher was shared with the Faculty of Medicine Class of 2016, who honored me with the Year 4 Teaching Excellence Award and subsequently invited me to give the Words of Wisdom Speech at their graduation ceremony this May. I had the privilege of working closely with this class for their entire journey though medical school- starting with a lecture on pregnancy in their first week, challenging them on the soccer field, chairing Repro Block in second year, supervising a medical education pilot project, and mentoring elective students in their final push for CARMs. Being able to teach and mentor along the continuum of their training, to witness the development of these young physicians, and ultimately share in their successes at graduation was an extremely professionally fulfilling moment.
Q. Why do you love to teach?
My philosophy of teaching is focused more on mentoring and facilitating the learner, and sharing a dynamic learning experience. Most students have heaps of knowledge but need some context, so I try to help them tap into their knowledge and further their critical thinking. I love sharing my passion for medicine and motivating a learner, and I especially love the shared sense of accomplishment we have when the learner has an “ah-ha moment”, and is stimulated to challenge themselves further.
Q. Was there someone who was inspirational to you, and whom you emulate as a teacher/mentor?
I have been fortunate to have many inspiring teachers and mentors, but Dr. Trevor Cohen (GynOnc Victoria) is particularly inspirational. Trevor was my chief resident in Edmonton, and was one of the most inspiring physicians I have been fortunate to work with. No matter how busy the unit was, Trevor made every learner feel valued and respected, and created space for each learner’s needs. He was so inspiring that I even followed him to Yellowknife for the month of January (i.e. minus 52*)!!
Q. Are there words of wisdom you would like to say to those aspiring to be teachers?
Make the learner feel welcome and valued- take time to get to know their name, depth of knowledge, and goals. Teaching is a dynamic interaction, so making that connection with the learner will help guide your teaching and engage you both in the learning process. Our learners excel when we can create a safe environment to foster their independent thinking, and we will be rewarded with a far more professionally satisfying interaction.
Q. How would your students describe you as a teacher?
Passionate, motivating, approachable, inclusive, dedicated, fun.