Name: Elena Guseva
Degree: PhD in Family Medicine and Primary Care
Hometown: Montreal
听
What did you love most about studying at 91涩漫 and/or in the Department of Family Medicine?
What I valued most was the interdisciplinary environment and the opportunity to engage in research that bridges clinical practice and real-world impact. The Department fostered a strong culture of collaboration, critical thinking, and mentorship, which allowed me to grow both as a researcher and as a clinician-scientist.
听
If you could change one thing in the world to make it better, what would you choose?
I would ensure universal access to free, high-quality education, recognizing it as a fundamental driver of equity, opportunity, and societal progress.
听
Please share a particularly proud or challenging moment from your degree.
Defending my PhD was both a challenging and deeply rewarding moment. It represented not only the culmination of years of research on dementia, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and innovative care approaches, but also a period of significant personal and professional growth.
Your hangout/study spot/eatery/club/activity?
My favorite spot was the Starbucks just across the street from my home. I spent so many hours there writing and working that the staff came to know me by name, and even remembered my order, often bringing it to my table. It became more than just a caf茅; it was my place of focus and escape throughout my degree.
A song, film, series, TikTok, video game, or phrase that defines your student years?
鈥淭rust the process.鈥� This phrase became especially meaningful during the more demanding phases of my PhD, serving as a reminder that persistence and consistency ultimately lead to progress.
Shoutout?
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my supervisors, my PhD committee members and mentors, as well as my collaborators and peers, whose guidance and support were invaluable throughout this journey.
Top tip for incoming students in your program?
Stay organized, be patient with the process, and don鈥檛 hesitate to seek support. A PhD is a long-term commitment, and maintaining balance and perspective is just as important as academic rigor.
What鈥檚 next for you?
I am continuing my research as a postdoctoral fellow in Vision Sciences at the Universit茅 de Montr茅al, where I will focus on inclusive digital interventions and sensory health in aging populations.
