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For Rose Eelman, the decision to pursue a career in medicine came after a high school co-op position in her local emergency department. This experience, along with further volunteer placements and a mission trip to Guatemala, convinced her that a career as a physician was the right choice. Now a medical student at the DeGroote School of Medicine at McMaster University, Rose reflects back on how she reached where she is today.

Rose started her journey by enrolling in the Health Studies program at the University of ��ݮ��Ƶ. She chose the program for its solid academic reputation. “I was also thankful to be an hour away from home – close enough that I could visit easily on weekends, but far enough away that I could gain some independence.”

While attending ��ݮ��Ƶ, Rose was actively involved in campus and community initiatives, and achieved great success in the Health Studies program. But it was in her first year of medical school, and her initial interactions with patients, where Rose truly understood the benefits of her experience at ��ݮ��Ƶ. “Medicine isn’t just about an individual’s health needs; it’s also about understanding the big picture,” she explains. “When we evaluate patients, we discuss issues such as the social and environmental factors influencing health, and the health care system – topics I covered in the very first year of the Health Studies program.”

The big picture is what Rose continues to focus on as she confronts the challenges of her studies. “It is easy to get overwhelmed by the massive amount of information you are expected to learn; I focus on working and studying hard, knowing that I will make it through the process.” For Rose, the rewards are most clear during interactions with patients. “Making connections between the theory and our physical findings is such an 'a-ha' moment!” she exclaims. “I love it!”

With the first year of medical school under her belt, Rose remains confident that she has chosen the right path. When asked if she has advice for other aspiring physicians, her answer is remarkably simple: “It seems really cliché, but be a well-rounded individual, take advantage of your strengths, and get involved in things that you are passionate about. There isn’t really any one key experience that is preferred by medical schools,” she explains. And her final piece of advice? “Keep your marks up!”