Hi I’m Brandon, I’m a third year medical student at UBC. I’m originally from the Okanagan, then moved to UBC Vancouver for my undergrad, which was in behavioural neuroscience and nutrition. Outside of school, I love playing a variety of sports, being generally active, and trying new things. I also enjoy eating and cooking so let me know if you have any recommendations!

Gurkamel (she/her) is a fourth year Medical Student at UBC’s Northern Medical Program. Prior to medicine she did a BSc. integrating Environmental Sciences and Animal Physiology. She worked as a Behavioural Interventionist for individuals with ASD and has been a longtime mentor at the HOPE Initiative.

HI! My name is Navjit and I’m is a third year Medical Student at UBC. I also completed my undergrad in Combined Major in Science and PharmD at UBC before entering medical school. I am somewhat of a nontraditional student and my path to medicine was quite unique compared to others. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, playing basketball, hiking, traveling and being a healthy gut advocate. I am grateful to be where I am today and hope to pay it forward!

Hello! My name is Brendan Tao, a third year medical student at the UBC. I completed my undergrad studies in biomedical engineering and health sciences at McMaster University. My interests include research, entrepreneurship with engineering sciences, and playing/watching hockey. My journey to professional school is slightly untraditional, given the engineering side of my undergraduate studies. My studies exposed me to the healthcare and engineering fields, and by working in both areas, I ultimately decided to attend medical school.

My name is Nathan, I am a recently graduated medical student at UBC. After high school, I did my first year of post-secondary in Science. After the first year, I transferred to Kinesiology. After which, I completed a Master in Physical Therapy and shortly after, was accepted to medical school at UBC. I am grateful for all the help I had along the way and am keen to pay it forward; outside of career development, I enjoy most physical activities as well as spending time with family and friends through board and video games.

Hi! My name is Vivian (she/hers) and I am a third year law student at the Peter A. Allard School of Law. Prior to law school, I obtained my Bachelors of Social Work and worked in various settings, including community mental health and research in areas of child welfare. I have been involved with The HOPE Initiative since I started university in 2016 and am excited to continue to give back! In my spare time, I enjoy crocheting, building Lego, and Muay Thai training.

Hello, I’m a third year pharmacy student at the University of British Columbia. I’m excited  to share my experiences and help future students on their journey into professional programs.

Hi! My name is Chloe and I’m currently a third year student at UC Berkeley School of Optometry. I went to UBC for my bachelor’s degree majoring in biology. Towards the tail end of my time at UBC, I began considering optometry as a potential career choice but didn’t take it seriously until I began shadowing in a private practice. Navigating the application portal and writing personal statements was no easy feat, but with the guidance of my mentors I successfully interviewed at UCBSO and SUNY. I greatly appreciated the assistance from my friends and optometry mentors, so feel free to connect with me and ask questions!

Hi! My name is Gwen and I’m a second year nursing student at UBC. Prior to nursing, I studied behavioural neuroscience and nutrition at UBC. I worked as a clinical research assistant for traumatic brain injuries and sexual health and have had extensive experience working with children with autism and individuals with Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. In my spare time, I enjoy staying active, traveling, and cooking. I am immensely grateful for the guidance and support I have received and am hoping to pay it forward!

Sandy, a non-traditional second-year medical student and mother of two
young children, completed her BASc in mechatronics before embarking on a
career as a professional engineer. Her diverse background includes
designing and testing custom medical devices, waterpark attractions, and
soccer-playing robots. After recognizing a shift in her values, she applied for
medical school after independently preparing for the MCAT without taking
the typical prerequisite courses. Sandy is happy to connect with prospective
students facing similar challenges on their educational journey.

Hi! My name is Jaya and I am a first year medical student at UBC. Prior to medical school, I completed my undergraduate degree in Behavioural Neuroscience and Physiology at UBC. In my spare time, I enjoy reading fiction novels, playing the piano, and drawing!