PGY-5
Dr. Dawn David
Why General surgery?
I love that general surgery provides a unique opportunity to marry theoretical knowledge and technical skill in order to produce innovative and lasting solutions to varied pathologies. Also, it is so inspiring to see a whole care team come together in the OR with the singular goal of caring for a sick patient.
What is the best thing about this program?
The wonderful people! It can’t be said enough that everyone from my co-residents, to the seniors and the staff surgeons are incredibly encouraging and supportive.
With the long hours we spend with each other throughout this training period, it makes all the difference to work with people you trust and get along with.
What do you do outside of work?
I love singing and dancing; it’s been the ultimate way to de-stress after longer days. I also enjoy sitting outside to catch up with friends and family on the phone, while intermittently fawning over dogs passing by.
What do you like about Ottawa as a city?
Ample green spaces! I love the view of Gatineau hills and the Ottawa River.
Any advice for CaRMs applicants this year?
Spend time with yourself! Reflect and take stock of what you’ve accomplished so far, and figure out what the ideal version of yourself will look like in the future. It’ll make the interview process much more meaningful and enjoyable.
PGY-4
Dr. David de Launay
Why did you pick General Surgery?
The diversity of acuity and conditions we handle. The hands-on technical skills and the critical care knowledge we use daily to care for our patients.
What is your favourite thing about this program?
Co-residents, staff, nurses and team members we work with on a daily basis.
What is your favourite moment from residency so far?
Telling my family I was coming home to Ottawa to train as a surgeon.
Any advice for CaRMS applicants this year?
Applying for a residency position does not define your personal worth. This journey is unique for everyone. Having navigated this process as a medical student and again as a resident, I can attest that the path may not always be straightforward. With perseverance, the outcome can be very fulfilling.
Dr. Anne Light
I grew up in Malaysia and Australia before coming to Canada. I went to uOttawa for medical school where I fell in love with the city and decided to stay for my residency. In my spare time I'm part of a choir, play piano, and enjoy knitting. I love dogs and corgis have a special place in my heart.
Dr. Fiona Doyle
Tell us something interesting about yourself
I competed in the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. I also did my undergraduate degree in Calgary and lived there for 7 years before going home for medical school.
Why did you pick General Surgery?
I always wanted to be a surgeon from as far as I remember as I was fascinated with the body and wanted to fix it from the inside out.
What is your favourite thing about this program?
I personally think we have a very close group. Everyone is super supportive and while everyone may not be your vibe you are sure to find someone you will click with and can mentor you.
What is your trick to being successful in residency?
Learn from your mistakes, and ask for immediate feedback. It can be super helpful for knowing where you're at, how you can improve, but also the positive feedback you usually receive can be really reassuring.
Where did you grow up?
Limerick, Ireland
Dr. Jeremy Lee
Where did you go to medical school?
University of Alberta
Why did you pick general surgery?
My resident and staff mentors in general surgery were - and continue to be - the physicians/people that I most looked up to in the hospital. General surgeons are extremely skilled operators, possess a tremendous breadth of medical knowledge, and have so much compassion for the patients they care for. I've always loved being in the OR and enjoy the unique challenges that general surgery in particular has to offer.
What is your favourite surgery?
Open Whipple
What do you do outside of work?
Play sports or do something active outdoors, play or listen to music, eat good food, watch TV/movies.
What is the best thing about this program?
The residents, staff surgeons and everyone else working behind the scenes to make our lives easier. It's a huge blessing to go into the hospital each day and expect to have fun with the people you work with.
Any advice for CaRMS applicants this year?
It sounds cliche but take this time to reflect on who you are and what you want out of your life/career. This will help you find the program that will be the best fit for you and allow you to thrive.
How do you stay in touch with your loved ones?
FaceTime, phone calls, social media, and playing online Catan or Tetris.
Dr. Ishita Aggarwal
Where did you go to medical school?
Queen’s University
Where did you grow up?
Toronto
Why did you pick general surgery?
It combines everything I wanted – A diverse patient population, a wide variety of pathologies, the opportunity to provide care across the management spectrum ranging from medical treatments to procedural interventions to major surgeries, and a chance to make a real and oftentimes instant difference both in and out of the OR. I was also lucky to have some great mentors along the way who helped me make my decision.
What is your favourite thing about this program?
It’s cliché but my co-residents. Our jobs can be very stressful, and that has been great for bonding! I’ve made some amazing friends since starting.
What are some of your favourite shows / movies?
My comfort shows are Friends, The Office, Gilmore Girls, and The Mentalist. I’m also a sucker for a good romcom or murder mystery/psychological thriller.
Dr. Andreea Damian
Why Ottawa?
The program and the city are both “just right” in size—large enough to offer excellent training and clinical exposure, yet small enough to maintain a strong sense of community. Ottawa is also surrounded by numerous running and hiking trails, making it easy to lead an active and healthy lifestyle. Lastly, it’s a great place to raise a family, with plenty of family-oriented events and activities throughout the year.
What is your favourite thing about the program?
My co-residents! Right off the bat you meet everyone, and from there you just continue to build strong bonds.
What is your trick to being successful in residency?
Keep doing at least one thing in your life outside of medicine that still grounds and recharges you.
What do you do outside of work?
Running! The running community in Ottawa is excellent, and there are multiple running groups every day of the week. Otherwise, I also like to travel, hike, ski, watch movies/plays in the park, and try out new restaurants.
Any advice for CaRMS applicants this year?
Try to highlight what you bring to the table / what makes you unique. Interviews are stressful, but remember that you are also interviewing the schools!
Where did you go to med school?
University of Toronto
Where did you grow up?
Newmarket, Ontario
Surgeon Scientist Program (SSP)
Dr. Victoria Ivankovic
Where’s your home town?
Winona, ON
Where did you do your undergrad / med school?
Undergrad: McMaster Kinesiology
Med school: uOttawa!
Tell us about some of your hobbies!
Snowboarding, reading (will never pass on the opportunity to recommend Shoe Dog by Phil Knight), iPhone photography
Favourite artist or song?
The Nights (Avicii)
What are some of your favourite shows / movies?
Queen of the South, The Fifty Project (YouTube doc series)
Dr. Nardin Farag
Where did you go to medical school?
McGill University, Montreal
Why did you pick general surgery?
What drew me to general surgery is the diversity of pathologies that we work with and the impressive breadth of knowledge that residents acquire during their training. You not only develop an array of surgical skills but also acquire a lot of knowledge of physiology and how to deal with challenging clinical cases.
What is your favourite surgery?
Whipple (but I do love a laparoscopic cholecystectomy)
What do you do outside of work?
I love cycling, hosting friends, trying new restaurants (and new wines) and watching a good movie! I also love travelling, hiking, and visiting my family.
What is your favourite thing about this program?
My co-residents are some of my closest friends, and the collegiality of the staff is great! Everyone is very approachable and ready to teach.
Any advice for CaRMS applicants this year?
Be yourself throughout the process and take time for yourself as much as possible. CaRMS can be very difficult and mentally draining, and having a strong support system is essential.
PGY-3
Dr. Katie McGuire
Why general surgery?
Love the procedures, the medicine, the acuity, the variety! No two days are the same and you are always learning something new!
What is your favourite thing about this program?
The people!! Best group of residents and staff I have come across in any city and in any specialty!
What is your best trick to be successful in residency?
I'm still learning how to be successful in residency.. but I'd say come prepared, implement feedback, and be kind to everyone you encounter.. patients, allied health, other services etc.
Are you interested in research? If so, what are your particular research interests?
I like ClinEpi research
What do you do outside of work?
Sleep! Also love staying active- running, snowboarding, hiking, ringette.. I love eating, I have a long list of must-try places in Ottawa! Wine nights with friends!
Where did you grow up?
Born in Calgary, raised in Ottawa
Where did you go to med school?
uOttawa
Any advice for CaRMS applicants this year?
Find the program that fits you best! You spend a lot of time with the people you work with so finding co-residents that make you excited to go to work goes a long way!
Tell us something surprising about yourself?
I'm really bad at dancing- may not be surprising to some who know me
What’s a new skill you’ve been working on?
Trying to learn guitar..not going well
What do you wish someone had told you before residency?
People had told me this but I didn't truly appreciate it.. take advantage of time off!!
What is your favourite thing about this program?
The people!! Best group of residents and staff I have come across in any city and in any specialty
Dr. Emili Gubskaya
Why general surgery?
Surgery because I like to fidget with my hands and General Surgery because I like the squishy bits in the middle and work way better under pressure!
What is your best trick to be successful in residency?
As much as possible try to complete tasks as you go, theres nothing worse than getting to the end of your shift and having 16 million notes to finish. Also make friends with everyone around you, the process is crazy but your people will make it so much better!
Where did you grow up?
Russia but then Calgary :)
Where did you go to med school?
UBC Vancouver!!
Tell us something surprising about yourself?
In undergrad I was commonly known because I rode a bright blue Penny board in a fake leather jacket to my compsci classes every day. Don't worry, I later upgraded to an actual skateboard and was obviously much cooler.
What is your favourite thing about this program?
How welcoming and friendly everyone is!
Dr. Nicholas James
What do you do outside of work?
Outside of work, I love road cycling and watching Formula 1 (sadly I chose to be a Ferrari fan). Ottawa has access to some of the best cycling roads/trails I've ever been on, especially in Gatineau Park. If you're also an F1 fan, the Canadian Grand Prix is only a 2 hour drive away!
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Toronto and lived there until I finished my undergrad at the University of Toronto. Since then, I’ve lived in Montréal and Windsor before moving to Ottawa for residency
Where did you go to med school?
Western University, Windsor campus
Tell us something surprising about yourself?
I’ve been playing the euphonium (looks like a mini tuba) since I was in elementary school. It’s the coolest and best sounding brass instrument by far.
What’s a new skill you’ve been working on?
I recently started taking beginner karate lessons.
Dr. Catherine Binda
Why general surgery?
Scope of practice and scope of potential career paths. Good mix of acute and longer-term patient interactions. Different "types" of days - clinic vs OR vs research vs teaching vs procedures.
Why Ottawa?
Ottawa is great (museums, community activities, parks). Ottawa is close to cool places for weekend get aways (Montreal, Toronto, New York, ect..). Good program vibes during CaRMS.
What is your favourite thing about this program?
The residents.
What is your best trick to be successful in residency?
Epic SmartPhrases.
Are you interested in research? If so, what are your particular research interests?
Academic Global Surgery! Favourite paper: 10.1503/cjs.010719
Why? I am interested in the ethics of global surgery and want to know how we can collaborate effectively with partners in surgical care. Probably the paper I've cited most and keep coming back to. Written by some great people in my research lab.
What do you do outside of work?
Cook, Eat, and Sleep. Choir. Run. Phone a Friend.
Where did you grow up?
Saskatchewan, Yemen, Kosovo, Nigeria, Malta, British Columbia
Where did you go to med school?
UBC
Any advice for CaRMS applicants this year?
Take a break with friends outside of medicine.
What is your favourite thing about this program?
The residents.
Dr. Emma Higgins
Why general surgery?
I chose General Surgery for the variety of pathology and the ability to make an immediate and lasting impact for patients! I love the balance of the technical skills/ hands on component and medicine
What is your favourite thing about this program?
Everybody has your back and is extremely approachable which makes for a fantastic learning environment!
What is your best trick to be successful in residency?
Ask questions and write everything down! Try and get as involved in cases as possible and have clear learning objectives for each rotation
Any advice for CaRMS applicants this year?
Be yourself throughout the process, you will end up at the program that’s right for you! And continue something outside of school that you enjoy to keep yourself sane
Dr. Sara Marier
What is your favourite thing about this program?
The culture of support from staff and residents. You never feel like you’re alone and you feel the staff are truly invested in your learning. We have an amazing group of residents that you can always count on for help and made the transition to residency as smooth as possible.
Where did you grow up?
Montreal
Where did you go to med school?
McGill
Any advice for CaRMS applicants this year?
Reflect on what is important to you and what program is the right fit for you. Try to get an idea of the feel and culture of a program as much possible with visiting electives, going to information sessions, and talking with the current residents. Make sure to take care of yourself throughout the process, trust in your capabilities, and be yourself!
PGY-2
Dr. Ribal Kattini
Where did you go to medical school?
I completed medical school at Monash University in Australia
What do you do outside of work?
After work, you’ll find me outdoors hiking/camping, at the Gym, or playing soccer.
Any advice for CaRMS applicants this year?
Stay authentic and be yourself. Remember that the process is about finding the right place where you’ll truly thrive.
Why general surgery
I enjoy the hands-on problem solving that surgery offers, and the dynamic, fast-paced environment it brings. I value being part of a supportive team and having the chance to make an immediate impact on someone’s life.
What is your favourite thing about this program?
The supportive culture — everyone genuinely looks out for each other, which makes a big difference in such a demanding specialty. It creates a sense of camaraderie where we can work hard, learn from one another, and still enjoy the journey.
Dr. Fatema Albafta
Where did you go to medical school?
I completed medical school in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Why did you pick general surgery?
General surgery feels like the specialty that best matches who I am. I enjoy working with my hands, making decisions in real time, and seeing the immediate impact of an operation. For me, operating doesn’t feel like just a job—it has become a natural and deeply rewarding part of my everyday life.
What is your trick to being successful in residency?
For me, it comes down to organization and consistency. Staying on top of small tasks, keeping an open mind to feedback, and supporting your team all make the long days more manageable.
What do you do outside of work?
I enjoy sleeping in when I can, cooking, deep cleaning and organizing (which I find oddly relaxing), shopping, and spending time with friends.
What is your favourite surgery?
Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (credit to Dr. Sandal for showing me how exciting bariatric surgery can be)
What’s a new skill or thing you’ve been working on?
I’ve been practicing aerial Pilates, which has been both challenging and fun.
What are some of your favourite shows / movies?
I’m a big fan of Gossip Girl.
Any advice for CaRMS applicants this year?
Stay authentic. Programs want to know who you are beyond the application, so don’t be afraid to share your personality, interests, and goals. Keep an open mind throughout the process—you might discover opportunities where you least expect them.
Dr. Christina-Maria Maalouf
Where did you go to medical school?
Université de Montréal
Where did you grow up?
Montréal
What are some of your favourite shows / movies?
I read project Hail Mary recently, and I can’t wait for the film adaptation!
Any advice for CaRMS applicants this year?
It’s a long and fairly stressful process. Do your best, but remember that a good portion of it is not necessarily within your control. Make sure that you surround yourself with a good support system that also includes people outside of medicine.
Why Ottawa?
The program has a strong focus on education, and everyone is genuinely supportive, it’s a great environment to train in. Outside of work, I have family in Ottawa, it’s close to Montreal, and there's a solid Lebanese community. The bilingualism is a great bonus!
Dr. Caroline Mallity
Where did you go to medical school?
University of Ottawa
Where did you grow up?
Embrun
Why did you pick general surgery?
Love the diversity of cases and the direct positive impact we can have on a patients life.
What is your trick to being successful in residency?
I'm only 3 months into residency but having a positive attitude and leaning on my friends/family/co-residents has been extremely helpful during this transition period. Also, meal prepping or buying pre-made meals is essential during the busy blocks like ACS.
What do you do outside of work?
Volleyball, hiking, going to coffee shops and spending time with family/friends
What is you favourite thing about this program?
The people are amazing! Everyone is welcoming and approachable. Being an R1 in any specialty is difficult but our seniors and co-residents have all been incredibly supportive since the start.
Dr. Rebecca Chapman
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in a fairly small place called Souris, located on the eastern tip of Prince Edward Island.
Why did you pick general surgery?
So many reasons! General surgery has such a wide scope that you can work almost anywhere, be a true generalist or gain specialization across a wide range of sub-specializations. It offers the inherent satisfaction of having tangible solutions to the problems your patients are coming in with. It offers the type of variety day-to-day (OR, clinic, endoscopy, minors, etc.) that I’m hoping for in a future career. It allows creativity in problem solving, demands that you be both an excellent surgeon and an excellent physician, be an asset to any community that you work within.
What is your trick to being successful in residency?
I think that as a PGY-1 I’m still learning how to be a resident, much less how to be a successful resident. But one thing that I’ve come to appreciate is the importance of understanding your limits. It’s a bit obvious, but to be a good junior, you have to both recognize and anticipate your limitations (of knowledge, skills, etc.). Everyone on the team is busy, and so when you can anticipate and plan for how you can be effective or will need a bit of help, it truly makes everyone’s lives easier!
What do you do outside work?
I spend most of my free time with my partner and our two dogs! We love to hike (Gatineau park is our favourite!), spend time in the local markets, and take advantage of all the lakes close by for summer swims!
Any advice for CaRMS applicants this year?
On your electives, talk to the residents ASAP if you need a letter, want to get to know specifics about the program, or are looking for a specific experience. We want to help and will try our best, but since you’re only with us for a short while, it’s best to tell us early on.
Dr. Jessica Morency
Tell us something interesting or unusual about yourself
I still have a baby tooth
Where did you go to medical school?
University of Calgary
Where did you grow up?
Waterloo Ontario
Why Ottawa?
I’ve always loved Ottawa and have family living nearby. To me Ottawa is a perfect of being big-city but doesnt feel too big or crowded. It has amazing opportunities to get outside and for me personally, was a way to do residency closer to home.
What do you do outside of work?
Kayaking, hiking, and rock climbing in the summer, hiding inside playing switch and reading in the winter.
PGY-1
Dr. Ashley Jackson
Where did you go to medical school?
uOttawa
Where did you grow up?
Chatham, On
What do you do outside of work?
Running!!!
Any advice for CaRMS applicants this year?
Trust your gut! Only you know what program/city is best for you, so try not to let other peoples’ opinions influence your decision.
Why general surgery
I love the variety! No two days are the same
Why Ottawa?
Great city, awesome program, excellent people!
Dr. Nick Wilson-Hodge
Where did you go to medical school?
Queen’s University
Why did you pick general surgery?
General Surgery blends a wide variety of patient-facing clinical care with the immediacy of solving problems through working with your hands. I like to fix things, so it’s gratifying to be part of a team working to help sick people feel better quickly.
What is your favourite thing about this program?
The people are honestly the best. Ottawa has a great mentoring program and that has been exceptionally helpful, and I felt like I already knew my co-residents even before we began in July. The staff are also incredibly welcoming, eager to teach, and ready to challenge you to do your best.
What do you do outside of work?
I plan to spend some time volunteering with the Canadian War Museum’s vehicle shop, helping to restore and maintain their exhibit fleet. One of the many amazing, unique things to see and experience in Ottawa!
Any advice for CaRMS applicants this year?
It feels like a marathon, so pace yourself. Be deliberate and self-reflective during clerkship, and know that your path doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s, so apply to the programs that light a fire in you.
Tell us something surprising or unusual about yourself?
During medical school, I taught myself the basics of auto mechanics and rudimentary welding, and used those skills to restore a friend’s non-functional 1967 Massey Ferguson tractor. By all accounts, it’s still doing well and is holding up nicely!
Dr. Alicia Shen
What do you do outside of work?
I love being outdoors, exploring National Parks, swimming, watercolour painting, and of course spending time with family and friends!
Where did you got to med school?
McGill University
Where did you grow up?
Montreal
Tell us something surprising or unusual about yourself?
I can fall asleep almost anywhere. It definitely comes in handy for catching a quick nap during a busy call shift!
What is your favourite thing about this program?
How welcoming and friendly everyone has been. Even in the busiest moments, the team always takes the time to teach and get you involved, which I've really appreciated.
Dr. Danyal Ahmed
Why general surgery?
I loved the breadth of pathology, the pace and the variety of procedures from open to robotic. I also felt I had the most options to specialize in for fellowship after completing residency.
Why Ottawa?
Ottawa has a great program and I liked the staff and residents I met here over the interview trail the most! You also get lots of subspecialty exposure including trauma when you’re on call at the Civic Hospital!
What is your favourite thing about this program?
We’re a small group and we’re mainly spread over two sites so you really get to know the people you’ll be working with for 5 years.
What do you do outside of work?
I mostly try to do something active and I love trying new restaurants.
Where did you got to med school?
Royal College of Surgeons Ireland in Dublin!
Where did you grow up?
10 years in Abu Dhabi before moving to Oakville.
What’s a new skill or thing you've been working on?
Learning languages for the last year - mainly Arabic and Japanese!
Dr. Camille Riopelle
Why Ottawa?
Ottawa felt perfect for me as I found the program to be a great fit and it allowed me to move back home near my friends and family. I also appreciate having the opportunity to train in a bilingual city, including training at TOH, and Montfort, a francophone hospital.
What is your favourite thing about this program?
The supportive culture amongst residents and staff. Everyone is very welcoming, supportive, and passionate about teaching, which makes for a great environment to train in.
What do you do outside of work?
I enjoy playing volleyball, ultimate frisbee, hiking, and spending time with my friends, family, and my mini schnoodle, Mika.
Where did you go to med school?
I completed medical school at NOSM University, at the Sudbury campus.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Timmins (until the age of 9) and Ottawa.
Any advice for CaRMS applicants this year?
Chat with residents and make the most of your visiting electives to get a good sense of each program and find the best fit for you. CaRMS can be a stressful process, so remember to take care of yourself, trust in your abilities, be yourself, and enjoy the journey!
Dr. Izza Sattar