Dr. Alissa Zhang (she/her) is a first-year obstetrics and gynaecology resident, having graduated from the UBC MD program in 2024. During her time at UBC, she served as Co-Chair of the Vancouver Chapter of the Reading Bear Society, a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting early childhood literacy.
What drew you to the MD Program at UBC?
Growing up in Ontario, I was initially drawn to UBC for the opportunity to explore the stunning natural landscapes, from the coastal beaches to the majestic mountains, while pursuing medical school. The strong sense of community and collegiality at UBC that I experienced during medical school interviews further solidified my interests in UBC. Now, since completing the MD program, I appreciate the many strengths that the MD program at UBC provides. I am grateful to have rotated through rural BC, as it allowed me to experience and appreciate the diverse healthcare needs of various communities across the province. UBC’s emphasis on community engagement and serving diverse populations resonated with my personal values of providing healthcare to underrepresented communities.
What is a memorable highlight from your time at UBC?
A memorable highlight for me was being a part of the Reading Bear Society! Throughout medical school, I worked as the Vancouver Chapter Co-Chair, and helped to create many resources for children and families including a Bear Yoga video, Vaccination resources, and a Reading Corner. The Reading Bear Society has allowed me to unleash my creativity, share my passions, and connect with children and families through movement, art, and reading. It really has allowed me to develop into the person that I am today, providing me with leadership opportunities through collaborating with fellow medical students, physicians, allied healthcare professionals, children, families and organizations in our communities.
How has your identity affected your perspective on the field of medicine and future pursuits?
As a first-generation immigrant from China, my identity has profoundly shaped my perspectives on medicine. Navigating the healthcare system as a member of an immigrant community gave me heightened awareness of the cultural and systemic barriers that many patients face. These personal experiences fueled my passion for advocating for equitable healthcare, and it also has driven me to pursue OBGYN, where I can provide culturally sensitive care and support women and families from diverse backgrounds.
What are you most excited for about a career in medicine?
I am excited about the opportunity to care for my future patients navigating their most life-changing and vulnerable moments. The prospect of combining my clinical skills with my passion for women’s health to empower women through various stages of their lives is incredibly fulfilling. Whether during childbirth, managing complex pregnancies, or when facing life-altering diagnoses, I hope to use the medical knowledge I learned at UBC to provide evidence-based and compassionate care.
What is your medical specialty and what factors have influenced your decision to pursue this specialty?
I am excited to start residency in OBGYN, and several factors have influenced this decision. OBGYN offers the unique opportunity to practice both medicine and surgery, allowing for a dynamic scope of work. Additionally, I am drawn to the fast-paced environment of OBGYN, which often involves working in high-pressure situations where quick decision-making is crucial. This environment reminds me of playing rugby, where teamwork, communication, and adaptability are essential. Finally, promoting women’s health and supporting women through some of the most significant moments of their lives have also guided my choice.
What does a healthy society mean to you?
As someone who loves sports and has personally benefited from physical activity, a healthy society, to me, is one where everyone has access to healthcare, education, and resources that enable active and fulfilling lives. This includes encouraging regular exercise and balanced nutrition, while also valuing inclusivity and ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, can thrive. It is a society that invests in the well-being of its members, recognizing that health is not merely the absence of disease.
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