Q. Describe your proudest moment as a teacher, who was the student(s) and why was it such a special moment.
I’m not sure there is one moment, honestly. I’m proud when a resident chooses to pursue an REI fellowship. I’m proud when they emulate my approach around a pelvic exam, I’m proud when they know my treatment plan before I do.
Q. Why do you love to teach?
I teach because I feel a responsibility to give back for all the kind and enthusiastic teachers I’ve had. I also feel a responsibility to society to make sure the gynecologist they see is well trained. This is what drives my interest in teaching. Teaching is also a bit selfish: I get to learn from students and am pushed to know more, read more and stay up to date. There are no downsides!
Q. Was there someone who was inspirational to you, and whom you emulate as a teacher/mentor?
Dr. Robert Liston. He is the reason I am an ob/gyn. As a medical student in Halifax I attended his clinic and helped him with a clinical research project. Dr. Liston loved what he did, he loved talking with patients and he loved spreading his enthusiasm to students. He was (and is) very professional and deeply caring for everyone around him.
I remember one patient refused to have students involved in her care. Dr. Liston explained all the reasons she benefits by having students involved and told her it was not an option to decline a student. He was a real advocate for students. Finally, it was always clear when you were with Dr. Liston that he was having fun. With humility he saw the meaning and joy in what we do.
Q. Are there words of wisdom you would like to say to those aspiring to be teachers?
There is uncertainty and insecurity in medicine which students sometimes mask with false confidence. Let them know its ok to be wrong, to not know the answer and to ask “dumb” questions
Q. How would your students describe you as a teacher?
Enthusiastic. Talks too fast.