At Lynn-Rose, our graduates take what they learn in the classroom with them to university and beyond. Students are encouraged to apply the knowledge they gain here to their career paths and real-life situations. This is exactly what Ian Chan, Class of 2020, has done.
Ian, having attended Lynn-Rose for 5 years, was particularly interested in our emphasized science program, and took advantage of all the tools we provide to help students pursue careers in Health Sciences.
Upon graduation, Ian attended Western University in London, Ontario and earned a Bachelor of Medical Sciences, specializing in Physiology and Pharmacology. Most recently, he has been applying to various medical schools to continue his journey in health science.
We were able to connect with Ian on his recent journey and reminisce on his time with us. Get to know Ian and learn how his experience at Lynn-Rose helped him achieve his dream career.
How do you feel your time at Lynn-Rose School shaped your career goals?
“My time at Lynn-Rose School provided a solid foundation in health sciences, instilling a passion for medicine and a commitment to lifelong learning. The emphasis on critical thinking and ethical considerations in healthcare helped clarify my career aspirations in the medical field.”
What aspects of your education at Lynn-Rose School helped you succeed in higher education?
“The rigorous academic curriculum, particularly in science and math, prepared me well for the challenges of university-level coursework. The supportive environment [and] small class sizes fostered collaboration and peer learning, which were crucial for my success in higher education.”
What experiences at Lynn-Rose inspired you to pursue a career in medicine and why?
“My biology and health science classes were particularly inspiring, as they highlighted the complexities of the human body and the impact of medical advancements. The mentorship from teachers, who encouraged open communication and provided fresh perspectives on different fields, solidified my desire to pursue medicine.”
In what ways did your high school teachers support you while you navigated the development of your career path?
“My high school teachers provided invaluable support as I navigated my career path. [They] offered guidance by sharing their expertise in various fields, helping me understand the different aspects of health science and medicine. For example, my Biology teacher encouraged me to explore research opportunities and shared insights about the importance of practical experience, which led me to seek out volunteer positions in healthcare settings.”
What life tools do you feel you obtained from Lynn-Rose’s emphasis on Health Science and how do you apply them today?
“Lynn-Rose’s emphasis on Health Science equipped me with essential analytical skills and a strong ethical framework. One significant opportunity was participating in dissection labs, where I learned to approach complex biological systems with precision and care. These hands-on experiences deepened my understanding of anatomy and taught me the importance of meticulous observation and respect for living organisms.
Today, I apply these tools in my academic and research pursuits, particularly in my work at the SickKids lab. There, I frequently draw on the critical thinking skills I developed during dissections to analyze experimental data and troubleshoot challenges.”
Can you share any leadership experiences from high school that you think will help you in your medical career?
“In high school, I had the opportunity to [act as captain] in flag football and basketball. [As captain], I organized practices, set team strategies, and encouraged my teammates to push their limits during games. This experience taught me the importance of teamwork and how to motivate others.
I worked closely with my coach[es] to develop drills that improved our team’s performance, fostering a collaborative spirit.
I [also] led a competitive math team to a second-place finish. During the York University Math Modeling Competition, I organized our study sessions, assigning topics based on each member’s strengths, which helped us tackle complex problems more effectively. This experience improved my organizational skills and ability to strategize under the pressure of a tight 48-hour competition.”
What is the most important lesson you learned from high school and how does it apply to your future career?
“The most important lesson I learned in high school was the value of resilience.
There were times when I faced academic challenges. Instead of giving up, I sought help from teachers and peers, which not only improved my understanding but also reinforced the idea that perseverance is key to overcoming obstacles.
For instance, during my preparation for a math competition, I initially found some topics daunting. By dedicating extra time to practice and collaborating with my teammates, we were able to significantly improve our skills, ultimately leading to our second-place finish. This experience taught me that setbacks can be valuable learning opportunities, a lesson that applies directly to a medical career.”
Do you have any advice for current Lynn-Rose students who want to pursue similar career paths?
“Stay curious and open to new ideas. Actively seek out diverse experiences and mentorship, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. By building a solid foundation in science, along with developing compassion and strong communication skills, you will be well-prepared for a successful journey in any field!”
