UBC Med Student Orientation Day

Thursday was a fun day! I felt privileged to attend UBC’s Medical Student Orientation, otherwise known as “Backpack Day.”  And boy do students love those backpacks!  I had the opportunity of speaking with the entire graduating class of 2018 – all 292 first year medical students - the future of our profession, our doctors of tomorrow.  I also had the good fortune to speak with many of these bright, personable, high achievers one-on-one, and what stood out for me was the importance they place on learning.  They’re enthusiastic, energetic, and wide-eyed as they embark on this journey we have all taken. Yes, they have the same anxieties we had, but more than that they have the same passion we had – and hopefully still do.

So I write this blog post to you – my colleagues – about these amazing students.  I ask each one of you to reach out in whatever capacity you can to help train and mentor our students.  By being highly engaged we will create and maintain our profession of influence. The next generation is our hope for a brighter future.  Today’s medical students are not shy; they question established views, they’re open to change and to new challenges. But they need mentoring and guidance just as we did, especially in their future roles as our medical leaders.

So I ask you to pay it forward – to help mentor these students who are the promise for the future of our profession, and our doctors of tomorrow.  If you want to get involved, contact me and I will put you in touch with those who can make it happen.  You won’t regret it, and you will have fun!

A photographer was onsite to capture moments from this fun event. View the photo gallery.

Dr Bill Cavers

President, 2014-2015