We have so many stellar Options alumni, and in our new series, we wanted to shine a light on a few of our past clients who have gone on to do great things both near and far. This month, we chatted with JJ about what he’s been up to since he graduated and his advice for current post-secondary students.
What’s your name?
Mikayla Fan
Where and what did you study?
- University of Calgary, Bachelor of Health Sciences
- UBC, Doctor of Medicine
- UBC, Pediatrics Residency Program
How did you choose this institution and program?
I chose the University of Calgary for many reasons! As someone who wanted to pursue research, I was drawn to the research-intensive, inquisition-based BHSc program. It is a smaller program, which gave me the privilege of getting to know my peers well. I also played on the tennis team and found the program to be very supportive of my non-academic goals.
For medical school and residency, I chose UBC because Vancouver is home for me. Also, as someone who loves the outdoors, the mountains and ocean are pretty hard to leave!
What would you tell current post-secondary students about finding a path?
The best advice I’ve ever gotten was to know myself.
You have a unique combination of life experiences, be it growing up in a different country, playing on a soccer team, or working as a server. Each of your experiences – whether they are big or small, positive or negative – have given you valuable skills, perspectives, and/or knowledge. For example, taking care of younger siblings may foster leadership skills. Finding math difficult may give you the empathy to help other struggling classmates feel heard and understood. Playing a sport can help develop time management and communication.
Reflecting on my experiences helped me realize what was important to me, what areas I wanted to grow in, and what skills I had. In a world with so many paths, opinions, and decisions, knowing myself allowed me to pursue things that aligned with my passions and goals.
All that to say, as cliché as it sounds, be yourself, reflect on who you are, and remember that the world has so much to learn from you!
Oftentimes our paths have setbacks and disappointments, which can be very overwhelming and stressful. If you find yourself feeling this way, please know that your feelings are valid and that you are not alone. Above all, I think it is most important to take care of ourselves, be it through talking to someone or doing things that foster wellness. 🙂
What are you doing now?
I recently graduated from medical school and am currently training to become a pediatrician.
What at Options Solutions helped you the most?
Options Solutions played an integral role in making my dreams come true. The team was incredibly supportive and really helped me develop a sense of self-belief.
When it came to selecting an undergraduate degree, Melinda was extremely helpful and went through all relevant degrees at all Canadian schools in great detail. She helped me remain organized during the university application process. She ensured my applications were on track to be completed on time and clearly outlined scholarship due dates.
I am extremely thankful for Melinda and the rest of the team, and truly believe they were an integral part of my life’s journey.
A fun fact about you?
I love to hike with watermelons and can eat a whole one in one sitting!