Faces of U of T Medicine: Erik Yao

Erik Yao is an MD student at the Faculty of Medicine and will be convocating on May 31, 2016. He has made numerous contributions during his studies, including being elected four times as co-president of his class and addressing a variety of student concerns.

Erik is among 13,500 U of T students expected to cross the stage at Convocation Hall to receive their degrees during ceremonies that run from May 31 until June 16. Share your convocation memories with us using the hashtag #UofTGrad16.

What was your favourite experience from Med School?

I’ve had so many meaningful encounters with patients. From the first baby I helped bring into the world to the resilience I saw in the eyes of a dying man, these are memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life. They’re a constant source of inspiration and drive for me to become a better physician.

Where do you see yourself in three years? In five? In ten?

Over the next two years, I will be completing my residency training in Family Medicine at U of T. I hope to follow that up with additional training and/or locum work in particular areas of interest such as palliative medicine. Down the road, I want to work in a community-based practice that allows me to integrate my subspecialty interests and also pursue health advocacy.

What advice do you have for incoming students?

It may sound cliche but remember to enjoy yourself in medical school! It may be an arduous four years, but also a great time to make lifelong friends and discover new passions. While you train hard to be able to help others, don’t forget to take care of yourself - be it through sports, meditation, travelling or simply spending time with your loved ones.

What do you do when you’re not in school?

I try to spend time with family, friends, and keep active in other aspects of life. I loved that I got to play for a season with the Hart House Chamber Strings ensemble, and learned to paddled for the first time with the U of T Med dragonboat team. I seemed to have also picked up the travel bug during medical school. As I’m writing this, I am on a road trip down the west coast of the US and will be headed to Europe in 2 weeks!

 

Faces of U of T Medicine introduces you to some of the interesting people studying in the Faculty of Medicine. From advising political leaders to providing care to Toronto’s most vulnerable populations, our students are making an impact on communities at home and around the world.

Do you have an interesting story to share? Contact us at medicine.communications@utoronto.ca.