Q&A with Bowen
"My family struggled as immigrants and if I am being honest, I had always thought that our hardships impeded me from medicine as a career path. I realize now that overcoming difficulties from a young age may in fact have helped me in more ways than I knew."
Bowen
MD Class of 2026
Why did you decide to pursue medical school?
There is no field as fascinating as medicine! Since high school, I have been drawn to the mysteries of the human body. Now, I am privileged to learn about deadly diseases, explore the cutting edge of modern medicine, and honestly just enjoy learning every day! I also find it immensely gratifying to help people in need. Medicine changed my family’s lives forever, and I want to have the same impact for others.
Why did you become a Student Ambassador?
I became a student ambassador to show prospective students why Western is an amazing school, and to promote diversity. I grew up in China and immigrated to Canada at age 7. My family struggled as immigrants and if I am being honest, I had always thought that our hardships impeded me from medicine as a career path. I realize now that overcoming difficulties from a young age may in fact have helped me in more ways than I knew. As a student ambassador, I would like to help students to consider medicine.
What do you wish you knew before you were accepted to the MD Program?
I wish I had spent more time enjoying my passions. Don’t get me wrong, I scheduled massive chunks of time for my love of badminton, cooking, and family. However, I was constantly bogged down by thoughts that I could be working harder to pursue medicine - MCAT, Casper, interview prep, application editing, essays, research… the list goes on and on. Only now do I realize that life (and medicine) is a long journey, so I must appreciate the small, colourful moments along the way.
Would you change anything about your journey to medical school?
I would not change any events about my journey to medical school. I applied to medicine several times, which was stressful but did instill in me a deep sense of perseverance. I formed habits that keep me consistent in physical fitness and daily learning, meaningful connections with mentors and friends, and most of all, I gained empathy to relate to my colleagues who also faced harsh paths to medicine.
What do you like to do for fun?
I can never say no to a game of badminton! I also enjoy board games, action movies, art, and new foods!
Do you have a personal motto or favourite quote?
"While it is great to believe in one self, a little help from others can be a great blessing" - Iroh
