What do you love most about your profession? Why did you choose this career?
I love the interaction with patients, and being able to support and help them during a very difficult time in their life. I also love the ongoing learning of new drugs and clinical trials. I chose this career after shadowing a Medical Oncologist when I was a Medical Student. This Oncologist is still a mentor of mine.
When did you realize you wanted to work in STEM or Skilled Trades?
Not until I finished my undergraduate degree which I did in both the arts and sciences. I also travelled the world for 3 years before deciding on Medical School. I think it is ok, and actually very important, to take time in your life to see what you like, and it’s also ok to change careers.
Why do we need more women in STEM and Skilled Trades?
Diversity improves every team, and workplace.
What does your typical workday involve? Can you work remotely? (indoors/outdoors, office/plant, travel time, teamwork/solo work)?
I work primarily in an outpatient clinic setting but also treat patients who are admitted to the hospital and teach medical students and residents at Memorial University. I am also involved in clinical trials testing new therapies. I work together in a large team of 9 other Medical Oncologist, GP Oncologists, Nurses, Pharmacists, Social workers and Dieticians.
Who is your role model? What is it about this person that inspires you?
My Mom. She was a feminist before I knew what that was. She raised 3 strong daughters, and never let anything get in her way. She was always passionate about equality for all people. She was also in a leadership position when it was very rare for women to be leaders.
What do you do for fun? What are some of your hobbies/activities?
I love being active, outdoors if I can, with my husband, daughter and Husky. I have also fallen in love with weightlifting, and love the constant challenge (physically and mentally). Physical exercise is key to my mental health, as my job can be very tiring (emotionally and physically with very long hours).
What advice would you give students who might be considering a career like yours? What advice would you have given your younger self?
If you are interested in a career, get to know someone who is working in it now. Shadow them, spend time with them, as the career you picture, may not be what it is truly like. For example, I was very interested in pursuing Marine Biology, but after a work term, realized it was much more indoor work than I imagined.
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