Meet some of our MD Undergraduate Program students.
My interest in medicine grew from a lifelong curiosity about biology and a desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. I made the decision to apply to medical school while pursuing my studies in biochemistry and molecular biology. Medicine offered a way to put my scientific passion into a practical context, as well as an opportunity to make meaningful changes within my community. With my growing awareness of barriers influencing the accessibility of healthcare services for different groups, the concept of being able to be part of changes that bridge that gap became a strong motivator. My advice to anyone considering this path is to ensure that you make time for yourself and those that you love. Best of luck!
Jayda Third, Southern Medical Program, Class of 2028
I was drawn to medicine because of the depth of human connection it offers, the continual growth it requires, and the fascinating intricacies of the body. It is a joy getting to connect with a variety of people during my training — both patients and colleagues alike. UBC has come to feel like home; there are many unique supports and opportunities that come with being a student here, along with the strong sense of community among classmates, faculty, and staff.
Cayley Lawrence – Vancouver Fraser Medical Program, Class of 2027
Growing up, I watched my grandmother navigate life after a stroke, and it was in those quiet moments of sitting beside her, helping with small daily tasks, that I first understood what medicine really means. It is not only about treating a disease but rather showing up for people during the hardest chapters of their lives. This early experience has remained my anchor throughout medical school, reminding me of why I chose this path whenever things get overwhelming. My advice to anyone considering medicine is to resist the urge to compare yourself to others. Pre-med culture can make it easy to chase experiences because someone else has them on their resume, but the most meaningful things you can bring to this career are the ones that are genuinely yours. Do what you love, do it with care, and trust that it will be enough!
Mustansir Pindwarawala, Vancouver Fraser Medical Program, Class of 2027
I used to think of medicine as the work of one person treating one patient, until a research internship in my senior year of high school showed me how collaborative science and care really are. During that summer, I learned through questions, feedback, setbacks, and trial and error. What motivated me towards medicine was realizing that I loved learning with and from others, using science not just to understand disease, but to help people through it.
Rith Bal, Vancouver Fraser Medical Program, Class of 2029
Orientation Day at UBC Medicine – Class of 2030
Other Videos:
Ellie Parton
Discover Ellie’s journey into medicine and how she became a role model to future Indigenous medical students across B.C.
Adrienne Stedford
Explore Adrienne’s unconventional path to medicine, which is proof that life is about the journey, not the destination.
Victoria Bass
From classical music to chasing the dream of being accepted into the MD Undergraduate Program – explore Victoria’s inspiring story.
Graeme Lindsay
Meet Graeme and find out why he never gave up on his dream of being accepted into the UBC MD Undergraduate Program.