Ella Proulx
Tell me about your background before pathology/medical school?
I did my undergraduate training in Radiation Therapy at Laurentian University in Sudbury and was fortunate to get accepted to medical school directly after my undergraduate.
What made you choose pathology as a career?
I've always loved learning and pathology is a career that allows me to learn for a lifetime as well as teach future generations of medical students and residents. I love the opportunity for interprofessional collaboration between oncologists, surgeons and pathologists. Finally, the work-life balance can't be beat!
What attracted you to Western’s pathology program?
I loved the collegiality between residents and between residents and staff. Having one predominant site allows the staff to get to know me as a resident. There is so much to learn in pathology, and as residents, we don't know what we don't know. Having caring staff that want to know us allows them to notice gaps in our learning so we can fill the gaps and be well prepared for royal college exams and our careers.
What are some specific things that you like about Western’s AP program?
I like the small group dynamic. I feel that the program fosters a safe learning environment which, in my opinion, is critical to growth and success.
What are your hobbies outside of medicine?
I'm a huge fan of live music so I spend a lot of my money on concert tickets. I also have a 4-year-old bulldog who takes up most of my free time.
What are your academic interests?
I'm interested in the integration of AI in medicine. I think this technology is revolutionary and can accelerate and increase efficiency in medicine and I'm eager to see how it will be incorporated in pathology and medicine as a whole.
What are your career goals?
Not having a significant exposure to all areas of pathology, I'm keeping an open mind and opportunities open.
What is something you would like to tell students who may not be able to do an AP elective at Western?
I'm certainly biased, now being a resident in the program, but our resident group can't be beat. Western has collected the kindest and brightest pupils to their program. I feel very fortunate to have such an excellent group to share the next 5 years with.
