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2006 RBC Scholarships for First-year Medical & Dental Students Recipients
The following recipients were selected for their outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals.
ATLANTIC REGION
Mr. Daniel Costa
Mr. Daniel Costa of Summerside, PE has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Daniel Costa is attending the Faculty of Medicine at Memorial University, NL. His outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to his selection.
A fascination with medical sciences, coupled with an enjoyment of working with people in need, have helped Daniel Costa achieve a B.Sc. in chemistry (Honors) and driven him to pursue a degree in Medicine. Daniel’s volunteer experience includes tutoring individuals with learning disabilities and assisting them in securing employment upon completion of their academic goals. Daniel has also volunteered extensively in palliative care situations, spending time and developing relationships with patients at a veteran’s memorial hospital, improving the quality of their lives. Over the course of two years, he also assisted residents of a nursing home during recreational activities and meal times. He aspires to participate in an international health program before returning to the Maritimes to establish a Medical Practice.
Mr. Fraser Loveys
Mr. Fraser Loveys of Corner Brook, NL has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Fraser Loveys is attending the Faculty of Medicine at Memorial University, NL. His outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to his selection.
With a Degree in Kinesiology, Fraser Loveys understands the benefits of sports and healthy competition. He has volunteered extensively as a coach with the Ontario Special Olympics, and as a chaperone for The University of Western Ontario Winter Special Games -- an event that partners university students with challenged athletes to participate in sports and activities. These experiences have fuelled Fraser's intention to establish a Health and Wellness Institute that contributes to the positive, supportive, healthy aspects of communities. In 2004, Fraser was diagnosed with Leukemia and has been receiving treatment. While he acknowledges that this is a major challenge for him at this point in his life, he maintains that his experience with this illness will make him a better physician.
Ms. Rebecca McGinn
Ms. Rebecca McGinn of Fredericton, NB has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Rebecca McGinn is attending the Faculty of Medicine at Dalhousie University, NS. Her outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to her selection.
Rebecca McGinn has earned a B.Sc. from University of Guelph, a M.Sc. from Dalhousie University and a B.Ed. from University of New Brunswick. Her volunteer activities include the development of the Diabetes Care Map of New Brunswick, a resource for improving diabetes care and management in the province; and the creation of an active playground program to encourage physical activity in young children. She also spent two years in the 21 Leaders for the 21st Century program, a New Brunswick–based initiative that put 21 young leaders together with business, political and community leaders to work towards improving situations in the province. Rebecca is a mother of four who is committed to practicing medicine in New Brunswick where physicians are in great demand.
Ms. Allyson Patterson
Ms. Allyson Patterson of Bedell, NB has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Allyson Patterson is attending the Faculty of Dentistry at Dalhousie University, NS. Her outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to her selection.
Allyson Patterson has dedicated many hours of volunteer service to different Fredericton-based organizations. She worked in paediatrics at Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital, a rewarding and valuable experience because in playing with ill children, she was able to help them forget that they were in a hospital. In the Fund Development office of the Red Cross, Allyson helped organize the Annual Red Cross Auction, amassing donations and prizes. She also spent time playing games with patients at the Stan Cassidy Rehabilitation Centre, which helped alleviate loneliness in those whose families were far away. The recipient of a B.Sc. from University of New Brunswick, Allyson chose to study dentistry because she wants to help people with oral problems and to promote oral health. Allyson plans to own a general practice once she graduates.
Ms. Melissa Persaud
Ms. Melissa Persaud of Fredericton, NB has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Melissa Persaud is attending the Faculty of Medicine at Dalhousie University, NS. Her outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to her selection.
While earning her degree in biology at University of New Brunswick, Melissa Persaud volunteered at Dr. Everett Chalmer’s Hospital, working with paediatric, geriatric, palliative and oncology patients. She also dedicated more than 500 hours to Mercy Ships Floating Hospital, providing care to patients in Gulfport, Mississippi and Honduras. Melissa’s experiences with Mercy Ships have made her passionate about pursuing work in international health. She plans to continue to volunteer for Mercy Ships and hopes to work as a physician on major projects for both Mercy Ships and Doctors without Borders. Melissa was also the chair of the University of New Brunswick’s Women’s Centre and since entering medical school has become a representative for the Federation of Medical Women. Such roles have given her great insight into women’s health and preventative medicine. Melissa is also the recipient of the prestigious Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, which was presented to her by the Earl of Wessex.
QUEBEC
Mr. Bilal Asif
Mr. Bilal Asif of Dollard des Ormeaux, QC has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Bilal Asif is attending the Faculty of Medicine at McGill University, QC. His outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to his selection.
In addition to his studies, Bilal Asif is a member of McGill’s pre-med council and vice president of the note-taking club, a service that assists 800 students with their biology and physiology notes. He has volunteered at an ambulatory care centre in the dialysis department, assisting staff while monitoring dialysis machines. He also spent time assisting senior citizens at a residence, where he gained a better understanding of the nature of healthcare, particularly where seniors are concerned. A Sunday School teacher at the West Island Islamic Centre, Bilal’s objective in life is to live with goodness and be devoted to the service of humanity, goals he feels he can achieve by becoming a doctor and serving his community.
Mr. Charles Cohen
Charles Cohen of Montreal, QC has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Charles Cohen is attending the Faculty of Dentistry at McGill University, QC. His outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to his selection.
As a high school student, Charles Cohen frequented a community dental office to gain a better perspective of the field of dentistry. There he observed an array of procedures and volunteered as an assistant. These experiences gave him a clear appreciation for the influential role a dentist has in the community. In addition to his studies at McGill, where he earned a B.Sc. in biology, Charles volunteered in the McCall Summer Dental Clinic, assisting dental students in providing free dental care to underprivileged children and to individuals with physical and mental disabilities. He has also spent time teaching English and French in Puerto Rico. Charles recognizes the influence good oral care has on the self-esteem of individuals, and he’s committed to putting the health of the patient ahead of monetary considerations.
Ms. Anna Khananian
Ms. Anna Khananian of Montreal, QC has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Anna Khananian is attending the Faculty of Medicine and the Faculty of Management at McGill University, QC. Her outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to her selection.
A graduate of Vanier College where she studied Health Sciences, and McGill University where she earned a B.Sc. in Microbiology and Immunology, Anna Khananian is passionate about how the human body functions and would like to work in healthcare administration. Eager to help others medically, she has gained extensive knowledge in the workings of hospitals and medical facilities through her volunteer experiences. Anna has assisted physiotherapists with recreational activities for patients at Royal Victoria Hospital, has aided nurses and doctors in the emergency department of the Jewish General Hospital and works as a medic at Emergency Medical Services in Côte-Saint-Luc, QC, providing first-response service to 911 calls. She believes that positive change is possible when knowledge, passion and employer commitment meet challenge and demand.
Mr. Tarek Malas
Mr. Tarek Malas of Montreal, QC has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Tarek Malas is attending the Faculty of Medicine at McGill University, QC. His outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to his selection.
While obtaining a degree in chemical engineering, Tarek Malas dedicated four years to student government and as chemical engineering president at McGill University. Time spent volunteering at Royal Victoria Hospital and at the Montreal Neurological Institute gave Tarek invaluable experience and provided him with a better understanding of patient needs and the complexities of the healthcare system. This insight was pivotal in his decision to become a medical professional. As a student, he was involved with call centers that offer confidential listening, referral and information service for people in distress. Tarek is keenly aware of challenges facing the Canadian medical system, and the ever-present threat of global health crises. To him, opportunities in the field of medicine are plentiful and promising. One of his goals is to volunteer as a physician in underdeveloped regions around the world.
Ms. Sara Saliem
Ms. Sara Saliem of Montreal, QC has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Sara Saliem is attending the Faculty of Medicine at McGill University, QC. Her outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to her selection.
Sara Saliem’s volunteer experiences are extensive and wide ranging. She conducted research on the causes of osteoporosis as part of a skeletal research project at the Jewish General Hospital. As a member of the Mental Health Interest Group, Sara worked to raise awareness about mental health issues in high school students, addressing problems such as eating disorders, youth depression and suicide. She has also assisted the nursing staff in the emergency and geriatrics departments at the Montreal General Hospital. One of Sara’s short-term goals is to take part in a humanitarian trip to Egypt where she plans to assist doctors working in an orphanage. Sara loves interacting with children and wishes to pursue paediatrics.
ONTARIO
Ms. Marijana Jovanovic
Ms. Marijana Jovanovic of Ottawa, ON has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Marijana Jovanovic is attending the Faculty of Medicine at University of Ottawa, ON. Her outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to her selection.
Marijana Jovanovic was pursuing a B.Sc in physiotherapy, and has chosen medicine as her profession in order to become a child or youth psychiatrist. Her passion for working with youth is evident through her volunteer work. As a tutor with the Belair Rotary Homework Club, Marijana helped children from low-income neighbourhoods with their homework and socialized with them. In hospital playrooms, she played with young patients to cheer them up and help normalize the hospital experience for them while providing support and the opportunity to take a break for their parents. She has also worked as a facilitator for Youth Groups facing mental health issues. Marijana believes that reaching out to people at a young age will help to prevent depression and substance abuse later in their lives.
Ms. Jennifer Kagan
Ms. Jennifer Kagan of Thornhill, ON has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Jennifer Kagan is attending the Faculty of Medicine at McMaster University, ON. Her outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to her selection.
Jennifer Kagan is intent on a career in medicine so that she can help to improve the lives of those in her community. Jennifer has already been contributing to her community through volunteer work. At Mount Sinai Hospital, she worked in obstetrics/gynecology, answering patient inquiries and helping to organize clinical information. At York Central Hospital, she volunteered in the adult day centre, helping the staff to care for seniors with cognitive impairments such as Alzheimer’s disease. She has also donated time to music and recreation programs at a centre for geriatric care. Cognizant of the increase in chronic concerns such as diabetes and heart disease as the Baby Boomers age, Jennifer advocates a lifestyle that includes a healthy diet and exercise and promotes its essential role in long-term health.
Ms. Bora Kim
Ms. Bora Kim of Richmond Hill, ON has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Bora Kim is attending the Faculty of Dentistry at University of Toronto, ON. Her outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to her selection.
Bora Kim is pursuing a career in dentistry because she feels it will give her the flexibility to dedicate her life to missionary work. Since high school, she has participated in five missions — to Kazakhstan (twice), Afghanistan, China, and Timmins in Northern Ontario — giving help and support to people in need, providing essential materials, and teaching English and computer skills. While a student working on her B. H. Sc. in Health Sciences at McMaster University, Bora worked as a counsellor and tutor to younger students whose first language was not English and who were struggling with their studies as a result. Bora feels that her dentistry studies coupled with her mission work will teach her more about compassion, warmth and empathy.
Mr. Lik Hang Lee
Mr. Lik Hang Lee of Vancouver, BC has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Lik Hang Lee is attending the Faculty of Medicine at University of Toronto, ON. His outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to his selection.
Lik Hang Lee earned a B.Sc. in Biophysics from the University of British Columbia. His goal in the medical profession is to specialize in radiology or nuclear medicine, where he can provide non-invasive methods of disease diagnosis, surgery and treatment. During his schooling, Lik dedicated many hours to academic and social clubs, and volunteered extensively at Mount Saint Joseph Hospital in the emergency room, the extended care unit and in LifeLine. In the ER, he, and the volunteers he trained, supported and assisted patients and their families. While in the ECU, he was a familiar face to resident patients for whom he planned activities and excursions. Lik has also assisted seniors living on their own in the community through the LifeLine Program. Lik also helped to design and implement a program that helps socially marginalized members of the population develop self-sustaining life skills as part of his involvement in TREK, a program at UBC. He is currently the co-VP of Communications of the University of Toronto Medical Society and co-Managing Editor of the University of Toronto Medical Journal.
Mr. Christopher P. Ray
Mr. Christopher P. Ray of Caistor Centre, ON has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Christopher is attending the Faculty of Medicine at University of Toronto, ON. His outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to his selection.
Christopher first became interested in medicine in grade seven through his mother’s work as a medical administrator. His philosophy is that physicians are clinicians and researchers, leaders and teachers, but most of all are in service to their patients and communities. Over the years he has shadowed clinicians and participated in medical research. This experience is reinforced by time dedicated to student government, teaching and volunteering. While earning his Bachelor and Master of Engineering Degrees at McMaster University, Christopher volunteered at McMaster Children’s Hospital where he spent time with patients and their families. He is an active member of West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation, fundraising for a new hospital. Recently, Christopher was awarded an Ontario Volunteer Service Award for his work at Participation House, a residence for adults with long-term physical disabilities.
PRAIRIES
Ms. Florence Cheng
Ms. Florence Cheng of Edmonton, AB has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Florence Cheng is attending the Faculty of Medicine at University of Alberta, AB. Her outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to her selection.
Florence Cheng has a deep desire to help others and has chosen a career in medicine because of the lifelong opportunities for learning it entails. Florence has already spent many volunteer hours helping those in need. At Grey Nuns Hospital, she established a new volunteer program, GEMS, that provides beauty services and entertainment to palliative care patients. As a member of the University of Alberta Women in Science and Engineering (UA—WISE) organization, she worked as a laboratory instructor, encouraging interest in science, engineering and technology in grade 6 girls. She has also lent her eyes and voice to create audiotapes for clients at the Canadian National institute for the Blind. She plans to pursue cardiology and become a clinical researcher.
Ms. Melissa Paquette
Ms. Melissa Paquette of Calgary, AB has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Melissa Paquette is attending the Faculty of Medicine at University of Calgary, AB. Her outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to her selection.
Melissa Paquette has chosen medicine as a vocation because of the academic challenges it presents, her interest in health sciences and most importantly, because of the impact she can have on others. Melissa is the co-founder of the first Canadian campus club of International Student Volunteers. The 250 member club provides students many opportunities to volunteer in local community development and conservation projects, while also promoting international travel and volunteerism in the Dominican Republic to assist Haitian refugees. A member of numerous organizations, Melissa has helped to raise money and awareness for a variety of causes, both local and international. She has been awarded several leadership awards including the prestigious Honourable Dr. Lois E. Hole Students Award, in memory of the late Lieutenant Governor of Alberta. Melissa plans to pursue family medicine and intends to devote a substantial amount of time to practicing medicine in developing nations.
Mr. Sundeep Singh
Mr. Sundeep Singh of Winnipeg, MB has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Sundeep Singh is attending the Faculty of Medicine at University of Manitoba, MB. His outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to his selection.
Sundeep Singh feels he has received so much support from his community; he now wants to contribute through his career. He has volunteered at a youth activity centre, providing a safe, supervised environment for children. He has also spent time volunteering and conversing with patients at Cancer Care Manitoba, which has prompted his interest in cancer research. In addition to his medical studies, Sundeep is the co-creator of www.healthmentormb.ca, a program designed to attract new doctors to rural areas of Manitoba where there are shortages of healthcare professionals. He anticipates a career where he can treat patients, continue his cancer research and help educate future medical students.
Mr. Michael Slatnik
Mr. Michael Slatnik of Edmonton, AB has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Michael Slatnik is pursuing medicine at the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry at University of Western Ontario, ON. His outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to his selection.
Michael Slatnik earned a B.Sc. at University of Alberta, graduating with distinction. During his studies, he traveled to Ecuador and spent three months volunteering in a medical clinic, under the sponsorship of Rotary International. Michael also served on the executive of Students Against Global Apathy, a university-based organization that raised $33,000 to help address the problems of HIV/AIDS in Sierra Leone. In 2005, he founded the Edmonton Special Olympics Snowboard Program, the first of its kind in Canada. As its head coach, he worked with other coaches to teach the sport to six athletes. Michael's thirst for scientific pursuit, interpersonal contact and social service are behind his plans to study public health and to continue collaboration with several socially conscious student groups.
Ms. Melinda Wang
Ms. Melinda Wang of Edmonton, AB as been selected the recipient of the RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Melinda Wang is attending, the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Alberta, AB. Her outstanding academic achievements, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to her selection.
Melinda Wang immigrated to Canada with her parents in 1997 and is truly grateful for the opportunities she has received since coming here. While studying biological sciences at the University of Alberta, Melinda volunteered in the University of Alberta Hospital emergency room, assisting patients with their needs and addressing questions from family members. She also volunteered as a tutor in the Students for Literacy program, working one-on-one with children struggling with reading and writing difficulties. Presently, Melinda volunteers at the University of Alberta dental clinic where she provides administrative assistance to the staff. Melinda intends to practice general dentistry after graduation and use the skills learned to provide the best care possible for her future patients.
WEST
Ms. Ray Kang
Ms. Ray Kang of Burnaby, BC has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Ray Kang is attending the Faculty of Dentistry at University of British Columbia, BC. Her outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community, and defined personal goals led to her selection.
A recipient of a B.Sc. in Microbiology and Immunology from University of British Columbia, Ray Kang is pursuing a career in dentistry because of her passionate interest in health sciences and her desire to help improve the health and well-being of others.
Ray currently plays violin in a community orchestra. The concerts are not only for the benefit of the community but also for raising funds for BC Children’s Hospital. In addition to her musical pursuits, Ray has volunteered as a leader at a children’s summer day camp and as an assistant at a seniors’ home hospital where she helped seniors with their daily routines and organized leisure activities for them. Ray’s long-term goal is to advocate for improved healthcare for underserved populations, and to provide patient-centred, financially affordable care both locally and internationally as a general dental practitioner.
Ms. Genevieve Lennox
Ms. Genevieve Lennox of Burnaby, BC has been selected as the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Genevieve Lennox is attending the Faculty of Medicine at University of British Columbia, BC. Her outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to her selection.
Genevieve Lennox comes to medical studies with a B.Sc. in molecular biology and biochemistry from Simon Fraser University. While studying there, Genevieve volunteered as a note-taker with SFU's Centre for Students with Disabilities. For the past four years, Genevieve has been a volunteer at BC Children's Hospital, running playroom activities for patients and families, and visiting patients on the wards. She has also worked with the Burnaby Hospice Society, visiting with palliative patients at St. Michael's Hospice and spending one-on-one time with children who have lost one of their parents. Genevieve is fascinated with science and the human body. She also has much empathy for those who are ill, having helped her mother deal with Crohn's disease. For Genevieve, medicine is a career that can maximize her potential while giving her the chance to contribute to society.
Mr. Bruce Rebner
Mr. Bruce Rebner of Victoria, BC has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Bruce Rebner is attending the Faculty of Medicine at University of British Columbia, BC. His outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to his selection.
A career in medicine has long been Bruce Rebner’s dream and ultimate goal. He has done a great deal of volunteering, much of it on a one-on-one basis. At False Creek Cerebral Palsy Centre, he spends many hours each week playing cards, listening to music, and going for outings with one of the patients. In addition, Bruce has been a volunteer with Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Canada since 2001 and is a Big Brother to a 12-year-old boy. A chemistry major at University of Victoria, Bruce is the organizer of “Let’s Talk Science,” demonstrating experiments at local elementary schools to get children interested in science at an early age. Bruce plans to work as a surgeon in a small rural town in northern British Columbia, where the demand for doctors is high.
Ms. Janet Wong
Ms. Janet Wong of Yellowknife, NT has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Janet Wong is attending the Faculty of Medicine at University of Alberta, AB. Her outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to her selection.
Janet Wong has dedicated many hours to the well-being of children and youth. As a tutor and coordinator for a children’s reading program, she helped children with reading difficulties develop a love for reading and recruited additional volunteers to do the same. As a paediatrics unit volunteer, Janet played with children, took them for walks, and engaged them in activities to help each of them maintain a positive attitude during their hospital stay. Janet has also volunteered with the Sport Ability Youth Activation Program where she helped children with physical disabilities take part in weight training and physical activities such as rock climbing and swimming. Having earned a B.Sc. from University of Alberta, Janet is now pursuing medicine in order to become a family practitioner in the rural Northwest Territories.
Mr. Peng Yan
Mr. Peng Yan of Vancouver, BC has been selected the recipient of an RBC Scholarship for First-year Medical & Dental Students. Peng Yan is attending the Faculty of Medicine at University of British Columbia, BC. His outstanding academic achievement, commitment to community and defined personal goals led to his selection.
Peng Yan plans to pursue a career in emergency or family medicine. His previous academic achievements include a B.Sc. in Computer Sciences and Genetics from UBC, and two years in the UBC Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences. His extracurricular experiences include being a volunteer first aid attendant with the St. John Ambulance Brigade, the highlight of which involved his participation in the B.C. Interior Forest Fire Evacuation of August 2003. In addition to this, he has found time to volunteer in Mount Saint Joseph Hospital’s emergency room where his fluency in three languages made him an invaluable liaison between the patients, family members and staff. At the hospital’s extended care unit, Peng helped organize family events and worked to contribute to the emotional and spiritual health of the ECU residents.
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