Abby Berube is Headed to Medical School

I do not know which type of medicine I would like to specialize in yet! There are so many different areas of medicine where you can help people in distinct ways. I would like to try all of them during my clinical placements before I decide - so that I know I am heading towards a career where I can best use my unique skill set to positively impact others.  

How did the MROO Scholarship help you reach your academic/careers goals? 

The MROO scholarship really helped me achieve my academic and career goals because it allowed me to spend more time studying and volunteering. I did not have to worry quite as much about my finances or having to work more hours to pay for my tuition. University is stressful enough on its own and the scholarship afforded me some breathing room to focus on my academic work. 

Do you volunteer or work in your community? 

I volunteer in my community! I was the president of the McMaster Kinesiology Society where I lead a bunch of initiatives to provide social and academic supports to my fellow kinesiology students. My proudest achievement from my time on the McMaster Kinesiology Society is when I created the new health and wellness position on the team so that we had a member whose focus is to provide mental health and physical well-being support to our fellow students! I was also an executive member of other co volunteer clubs aiming to help the Hamilton community, including Mac Soup Kitchen and GeriActive Outreach!  

What led you to want to pursue medicine and become a doctor? 

I was really drawn to medicine as a career because it really combines my love of science and learning with my desire to help people. Medicine is a special field where you learn so much about the physiology within the human body and then use that to help others. Studying medicine also provides an opportunity for participation in research, where we can learn new ways to continue to help others and improve lives. That appeals to me. I love learning and discovering new things, and I would love to channel that passion and fine ways to improve health outcomes for my community.  

What do you like to do for fun? Any interests or hobbies? 

I play many sports, including field hockey! I also enjoy spending time in nature through kayaking and hiking. I also love taking my dog to agility classes. 

Your family must be so proud. Are there any other doctors/medical professionals in your family? 

My mom is a family doctor, and my grandmother was a nurse!  

What did you do in your undergraduate in? 

I did my undergraduate degree in kinesiology at McMaster University.