Dr. Dayle Ostapiuk, MD’18

Having grown up in Prince George, Dr. Dayle Ostapiuk, MD’18 was drawn to the Northern Medical Program instantly. After graduation, she now remains in Prince George, working as a third year psychiatry resident.

What is your current role?
I work as a UBC psychiatry resident in my third year at the Prince George site.

What drew you to the Northern Medical Program (NMP)?
I grew up in the Prince George region and I have always felt that there is a wonderful sense of community. I wanted to study and return as a doctor to work here so NMP was an easy first choice.

Tell us about your favourite memory about studying in the NMP.
My favourite memory of NMP is of third year in its entirety. There is something poignant about that year as it encompasses some of the greatest growth and struggles as we find our feet as professionals and also bond as colleagues.

What is your biggest takeaway from the NMP?
I am going to risk sounding cliché. The biggest takeaway for me was that we don’t know what is possible until we ask and the NMP program provides that perspective, both with asking what is possible from an education standpoint and encouraging us to be curious about ourselves and of our patients. I think there is so much potential in a question.

Do you have any advice for students in the NMP?
Yes, I think I have something to offer. Students have all competed in one way or another for acceptance into this program; I’ve found that this acceptance process frames an environment of high personal and professional standards while laying a foundation for a collegial bond through shared experience. My suggestion for NMP students is to trust that you belong in the program, to enjoy yourselves more, and to build relationships with classmates earlier.

Who is the most influential person of your life so far?
First of all, that’s a difficult question because context always matters. I actually can’t share that story because it belongs to a patient and is confidential. However, I can share that person changed my perspective on many topics and the memory fills my compassion cup when I’m particularly tired.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected you?
COVID-19 has offered unwanted discomfort both personally and professionally as so many people have struggled during this time. However, it has also offered some beautiful gifts that I don’t think I would have encountered in our previous routine. I have had time to reflect and explore personal and academic topics in both the physical socially distanced space COVID-19 created as well as the time now available due to lack of social events. I have been appreciative of this time.

What do you consider your greatest achievement or what are you most proud of?
My greatest personal achievement has been scuba diving.

Name one thing on your bucket list.
I want to go skydiving.

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