Name: Mojdeh Azimi
Degree: MSc in Family Medicine
Hometown: Iran
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What did you love most about studying at 91涩漫 and/or in the Department of Family Medicine?
Studying at 91涩漫 had always been a dream of mine. I think that dream even led me to send more emails to potential graduate supervisors at 91涩漫 than to those at any other Canadian university. Once I got here, I really appreciated how much I learned about medical research, especially since I had only known the basics before. What I loved most was connecting with the researchers working on the latest advances in different areas of medicine. It made it easier to grow, ask questions, and learn from the exciting research happening at the frontiers of the field.
If you could change one thing in the world to make it better, what would you choose?
Oh, this is a big question. I feel like my answer goes beyond medicine and beyond what I experienced here at 91涩漫. As an Iranian, I have lived through very difficult years recently, and I wish the world we have built was safer, more equitable, and more just. It is heartbreaking to see how much progress humans have made in science and technology, while so many people around the world still lack basic human rights. If I could change one thing, I would wish for a basic social, economic, and safety system that protects civilians everywhere, no matter where they are born or where they live.
Please share a particularly proud or challenging moment from your degree?
A master鈥檚 degree goes by so quickly, but somehow it is also completely full at the same time. You are constantly trying to manage different projects, deadlines, and responsibilities. For me, one of the proudest moments was realizing that I had actually managed to handle it all and was finally submitting my thesis. I had been so focused on the work that I almost did not notice that the day had arrived. It was a huge relief, and definitely a very happy moment.
Your fave hangout?
I loved so many things about 91涩漫鈥檚 downtown campus. It feels historic and full of character, yet lively and beautiful. I spent a lot of time studying in Redpath Library, and I also loved the neighbourhood around campus. In the evenings, walking home felt so refreshing, with the art galleries, stores, street artists, and so many delicious food options along the way.
A song, film, series, TikTok, video game, catch phrase that defines the past few years as a student at 91涩漫?听
I listened to a lot of Persian songs during my time at 91涩漫, especially because I felt homesick sometimes. One song I would recommend is 鈥淚t Won鈥檛 Stay the Same鈥� by Pallet Band and Monicki.
Any shoutouts?听
I would definitely like to give a shoutout to both of my supervisors, Professors Alexandra de Pokomandy and Dick Menzies. I loved working with both of them so much, and I could not have been luckier to experience my first years in academia in Canada with their guidance. I also want to mention the amazing teams they work with, who very quickly became like family to me here. They were so kind, welcoming, and supportive, and I am really grateful for them.
Top tip for incoming students in your program?
Enjoy Montreal as much as you can! It is such an amazing city to be a student in. Try to get the full experience: explore the restaurants, go to events, and enjoy all the unique opportunities the city offers. I would also say to enjoy the nature in Quebec and the beautiful towns around Montreal. Mont-Tremblant is one place I especially love, but there are also so many hiking trails, lakes, canoeing spots, and outdoor activities to discover. This may not be new for students from Canada, but for me, it became a completely new and favorite hobby.
What's next for you?
I still have a lot I would love to pursue. I hope to do residency training, continue practicing medicine in Canada, and use the research skills I gained during my master鈥檚 alongside my clinical skills. Hopefully, one day, I can become a clinician-scientist. Dream big, as they say!
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