MMHS Fall 2023 Newsletter by macmhs

MMHS Newsletter Issue 09 | December 2023

Greetings, I would also like to begin by expressing my gratitude to the entire MMHS executive team for their tireless efforts behind-thescenes to ensure the delivery of high-quality events and to all the guest speakers who have collaborated with us to share their diverse perspectives through our informative initiatives.

As we embark on a new year, it brings me immense pleasure to welcome to you to our ninth issue of the biannual MMHS newsletter. Our journey thus far has been one of immense growth and collaboration, and I am excited to share all this and more to come through this issue.

thrilled to announce that MMHS has been named the 2022/2023 MSU academic club of the year! This achievement not only reflects our team’s unwavering commitment to excellence but underscores the positive impact we’ve had on our members and the academic community.

At MMHS, we believe in the power of community and strength through collaboration. This year, our focus has been on creating a space where students can forge new connections, discover shared passions, and work together to enhance academic and professional journeys.

This newsletter will showcase the multitude of student opportunities and services that have been and will be provided through means of our upcoming events and new initiatives.

On behalf of our executive team at MMHS, I would like to thank you for sharing this journey with us. I am beyond excited to start this new year with you all.

As always, we appreciate hearing your feedback! If you have any questions or concerns regarding MMHS, please feel free to contact us through our socials.

SIGNING OFF HEBA HANIF EDITOR-IN-CHIEF MMHS VP of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

In our ever expanding pursuit of mentorship and guidance, we are

Executive Team 2023-2024 Executive Board Here is the diligent executive team behind our amazing MMHS events!

Asim Shaikh

To learn more about our team, check out our website and other socials!

Pranshu Maini

Co-President Health Sciences, IV McMaster University

Dickyi Bhagentsang

Navya Juneja

VP Events - Medicine Biomedical Discovery & Commercialization, IV McMaster University

VP Events - Medicine Health Sciences, II McMaster University

Yasmin Meghdadi

VP Events - Biotechnology Health Sciences, III McMaster University

David Gou Research Coordinator Health Sciences, II McMaster University

Sarah Allam

Research Coordinator Health Sciences, III McMaster University

Natalie Abdelmseeh Mentorship Coordinator Health Sciences, II McMaster University

Rishitha Garapati VP Events - Dentistry Biochemistry, IV McMaster University

Jenny Wang

VP Events - Pharmacy Health Sciences, II McMaster University

David Nasri Research Coordinator iBioMed HESE, IV McMaster University

Raymond Qu Mentorship Coordinator Health Sciences, II McMaster University

Stephanie Aleluya

Heba Hanif

Humphrey Erizo

Nataly Ayoub

VP Administration Health Sciences, II McMaster University VP Finance Molecular Biology & Genetics, III McMaster University

VP External Affairs Honours Chemical Biology, III McMaster University VP Communications Health Sciences, II McMaster University

Executive Team Ria Patel

VP Communications Health Sciences, I McMaster University

Harmil Kalia Photographer Arts & Science, III McMaster University

Varshaa Srivel Graphic Designer Life Sciences, III McMaster University

Instagram @mac.mhs Visit our Instagram for up-to-date information about all club initiatives and events. As well as, special initiatives. ➢ MEDMINIS Bi-weekly posts on novel advances in healthcare. Check out our highlights for these special tidbits of knowledge!

Website www.macmhs.com Drop by our website to explore more opportunities including volunteer and research, as well as, information regarding past and future events and our numerous sponsors.

Feel free to connect with us through any one of our other numerous social media platforms:

Facebook McMaster Medicine and Health Society https://www.facebook.com/MacMMHS

Linkedin McMaster Medicine and Health Society https://www.linkedin.com/company/mc master-medicine-and-health-society

TikTok @mac.mhs

Microsoft Teams Join Code: 2pkgxim Join by entering the code on Microsoft Teams to see weekly postings of volunteer, research, and club opportunities at McMaster or in the surrounding Hamilton community.

Reddit r/mcmaster - u/MacMedHealthSoc

Email mmhs@mcmaster.ca

Fall Events

Clubsphere - MMHS Social Do you desire to indulge in a night of connection and camaraderie? Do you fancy a laid-back evening filled with good company, laughter, and of course, pizza? Well, look no further, and be prepared for our Annual Social Gathering, brought to you by MMHS! Our social has been a staple, providing a fantastic opportunity for attendees to unwind, mingle and build lasting connections. This year, we held our social on October 26th, 2022 from 6:00 - 8:00 pm EST in person, hosting about 30 attendees.

Our social provided guests the opportunity to meet our amazing team as well as other passionate individuals. We also had the opportunity to meet and hear from our sponsors, including BeMo, Prep101, and The Princeton Review amongst others. What an amazing way to kick off the school year!

Your Feedback! Your input would be greatly appreciated! We encourage you to share your recommendations for any one of our Fall events using this form! https://forms.gle/iodKx1YDRcnEqoqb8

Fall Events

Medical School Symposium

Part 2

Are you considering medical school? Eager to learn more about the application and admissions process? If so, you’ll be sure to enjoy the next chapter of our Annual Medical School Symposium! Proudly hosted by MMHS since 2018, this event is your golden opportunity to gain firsthand insights from admissions officers.

The excitement continued with our second part on November 8th, 2023, from 6:00 8:00 pm EST, in the Health Sciences Centre at McMaster.

In a departure from tradition, this year’s symposium unfolds as a dynamic twopart series, offering more flexibility and extended interaction time for students.

Part 1 Kicking off on November 1st, 2023 from 6:00 - 8:00 pm EST over Zoom, hosting the University of Ottawa, the University of Toronto, and the University of British Columbia admissions officers.

We welcomed both admissions officers from Western University online and MD students from McMaster University in person, welcoming about 40 attendees.

Your Feedback! Your input would be greatly appreciated! We encourage you to share your recommendations for any one of our Fall events using this form! https://forms.gle/iodKx1YDRcnEqoqb8

Fall Events In both iterations we were first offered specialized information regarding the admissions process, for each school, followed by an extensive Q&A session.

Pharmacy Professionals Panel Thinking of a career in pharmacy? Look no further! MMS is thrilled to present the first ever Pharmacy Professionals Panel, bringing together stellar guest speakers from EMD Serono, AbbVie, and Roche for an evening of insightful conversation and inspiration.

On November 22nd, 2023, from 6 to 7 pm EST over Zoom, we hosted our panels welcoming about 20 attendees

The Medical School Symposium is a great opportunity for students to receive up-to-date credible information directly from admissions officers. As well as the opportunity to ask personalized questions on the spot.

plus speakers. With great engagement and valuable insights from pharmacy professionals, allowing attendees to ask questions and network.

Your Feedback! Your input would be greatly appreciated! We encourage you to share your recommendations for any one of our Fall events using this form! https://forms.gle/iodKx1YDRcnEqoqb8

Fall Events

So You Want To Be A Doctor? Considering a path in medicine? Dive into invaluable insights at our annual panel featuring MD students, an enriching experience for students aspiring to pursue a career in medicine. This year, on December 1st, 2023, from 6:00-8:00 pm EST, MMHS hosted an in-person event with a hybrid panel, welcoming more than 90 attendees!

Our panel was greatly engaging with vibrant conversations. Each speaker provided a unique glimpse into the diverse profiles of each of their applications. Our panel hosted various MD students including, Praise Christi (McMaster University), Donny Li (McMaster University), Ally Carmona (McMaster University), Ronesh Sukhdeo (University of Toronto), Maryrose Waniss (University of Toronto), and Jayneel Limbachia (University of Western Ontario) in person. Along with Nimit Vediya (University of Toronto), Iman Baharmad (University of British Columbia), and Zaim Khan (University of Ottawa) online through Zoom.

Your Feedback! Your input would be greatly appreciated! We encourage you to share your recommendations for any one of our Fall events using this form! https://forms.gle/iodKx1YDRcnEqoqb8

Fall Events

Attendees also had the chance to win an MCAT prep book set from The Princeton Review, one of our sponsors. With the winner taking home 8 books for free!

Insightful conversations post-panel allowed attendees to build lasting connections with the MD students in attendance, and develop their networks.

Your Feedback! Your input would be greatly appreciated! We encourage you to share your recommendations for any one of our Fall events using this form! https://forms.gle/iodKx1YDRcnEqoqb8

Fall Events Pioneering Paths in Biotechnology Discovery and Innovation Considering a career in biotechnological innovation? Brace yourself for an immersive journey into the future of biotechnology, Pioneering Paths in Biotechnology Discovery and Innovation. On November 24th, from 5 to 8 pm EST at McMaster University we hosted our first Biotechnology panel.

Our panel hosted Dr. Jonathan Bramson, with a focus on directing the immune system to tumors using synthetic biology. We had the amazing chance to explore the future of cancer immunology, and empowering the body in defense against cancer.

As the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Dr. Heather Sheardown transforms research into tangible solutions, exploring the intersection of engineering and healthcare, having made three spin-off companies!

This panel showcased the interdisciplinary wonders of healthcare through captivating talks by industry trailblazers.

Your Feedback! Your input would be greatly appreciated! We encourage you to share your recommendations for any one of our Fall events using this form! https://forms.gle/iodKx1YDRcnEqoqb8

Fall Events Ignite your curiosity for cutting-edge medical imaging with the brilliant work of Dr. Katherine Zukotynski. Join her as she explores the depths of oncology and neurodegenerative diseases through innovative imaging techniques.

Our panel welcomed over 30 attendees with great engagement. Wit the opportunity for students to delve into new research areas, explore new topics in biotechnology, and make lasting connections.

ScholarSphere Ready to dive into the world of research, but not sure where to start? Look no further, than the first ever MMHS ScholarSphere. An eye-opening session where you’ll hear from students who have received prestigious research awards, scholarships, including the McMaster BHSc Summer scholarship, CONNECT, IMS SURP, NSERC USRA, and more!

This panel provided attendees the opportunity to ask our accomplished speakers thought-provoking questions about their research. Alongside unraveling the nuances of the applications for the various awards available to them. This interactive session allowed attendees to connect over shared interests in research and provide an informative session where they could have their burning questions answered.

Your Feedback! Your input would be greatly appreciated! We encourage you to share your recommendations for any one of our Fall events using this form! https://forms.gle/iodKx1YDRcnEqoqb8

Fall Events

Find Your Path to Becoming a Dentist Dreaming of a future as a dentist? Your journey starts here! On December 5th, 2023 from 6 to 7:30 pm EST, online MMHS hosted two virtual speakers. Our panel had the chance to host about 40 attendees alongside our speakers Arshia Sabet and Lara de Jesus both from the University of Toronto, having finished their Bachelor’s from McMaster University.

Our session hosted an amazingly engaging audience with numerous questions on topics such as studying, extra-curriculars, and the overall application process. Our passionate speakers had the chance to share their journeys to their respective positions and the moments in their lives that led to their overall sucess.

Hosting alongside McMaster Predental Club afforded MMHS the amazing opportunity to increase both engagement and outreach.

Your Feedback! Your input would be greatly appreciated! We encourage you to share your recommendations for any one of our Fall events using this form! https://forms.gle/iodKx1YDRcnEqoqb8

Winter Events

Bioethics Discussion

Surgical Skills Workshop

Curious about how dilemma unfolds in healthcare? If so, join us for an enriching session that delves into fundamental ethical issues faced by healthcare professionals. This winter, we’re thrilled to host Bob Parke a distinguished Bioethicist at the University of Toronto. Bob Parke Bioethics consultant at the Humber River Regional Hospital, a valued member of the Clinical Advisory Committee at the Ontario Palliative Care Network (OPCN), and an understudy to famous Bioethicist Dr. Philip Hébert.

Are you interested in wound repair and learning one of the basics of healthcare? Suturing techniques are useful in primary and urgent care settings across healthcare. This Winter, MMHS hopes to host a suturing workshop to hone basic skills. We plan to provide students with suturing kits as we are taken through the processes involved in the wound repair process. We hope this helps students gain opportunity to learn skills that will be applicable in the future.

Don’t miss out on the chance to navigate challenging case studies and enhance your understanding of bioethics. Connect with like-minded individuals and expand your knowledge of what a career in healthcare could entail.

Let's Talk Research Conference As we approach Winter 2024, the realm of research continues to be a paramount consideration for students eyeing Medical School or embarking on Graduate Studies. Navigating the intricacies of securing research opportunities, especially without established connections, poses a unique challenge.

In response, MMHS is stepping into the role of a facilitator for McMaster students. The Let's Talk Research Conference, aims to serve as a vital link connecting students with researchers.

Winter Events This event seeks to foster valuable connections and networking by providing attendees with practical insights into navigating the research landscape.

Each year’s panel is carefully chosen to fit a desired theme, last year's theme was on advances in rehabilitation science. Each edition features distinguished panelists who share their expertise, carefully chosen to align with the chosen theme of the year. The anticipation is high, and we invite you to stay tuned to our dynamic social media channels for upcoming announcements on this year's panelists and themes, promising a fresh perspective on the dynamic intersection of students and researchers.

Pre-Health Fair Embark on a journey of meaningful connection and community impact with MMHS’, “So You Want to Help People?” We’re thrilled to announce this upcoming event this winter, dedicated to linking students with extra-curricular and volunteer opportunities in and around the McMaster community in Hamilton.

This event is your gateway to engaging with esteemed organizations such as the Canadian Red Cross, Children’s Aid Society, Ronald McDonald House Charities, and more.

Whether you’re intrigued by healthcare, medicine, or community service, there’s a space for you to explore. Don’t miss out on this unique chance to turn passion into action.

Winter Events PRISM - Mentorship Program Prepare for a transformative year with MMHS as we unveil PRISM, our Pre-Health Mentorship Program meticulously designed to guide aspiring healthcare professionals. PRISM offers students an exclusive opportunity to receive mentorship from individuals currently pursuing professional degrees in Medicine or Dentistry. We recognize the complexities of navigating a healthcare career, particularly for those impacted by financial, medical, or socio-cultural barriers, as well as historically underrepresented groups. MMHS underscores its commitment to equity diversity, and inclusion through tailored support provided by PRISM.

MMHS is currently calling for mentor applications from US and Canadian medical and dental students! Become a mentor today and contribute your invaluable guidance to undergraduate students, serving as a source of inspiration for those charting their paths in healthcare.

Apply to be a mentor today! https://forms.gle/MEY5Wfj577vZiDV57 PRISM goes beyond a first-come-first-serve system. We gather detailed information about mentor’s and mentees and match them according to shared interests in research, EC’s, passions, and interests and passions in healthcare.

MMHS - BTS Curious about post-undergrad career options? Eager for quick insights into diverse careers? Connect with graduate students and professionals in your field of interest through MMHS’ Instagram ‘Behind the Scenes’ highlights. Our takeovers showcase the day-to-day experiences of professionals, providing watchers the freedom to ask questions and receive quick personal answers. Don’t miss our past takeovers under our highlights featuring Dentistry, Pharmacy, Optometry, Medical students, and more! More takeovers are on the horizon, featuring chiropractors, MD PhD’s, nurse practitioners, and more. Stay tuned for the exciting content ahead!

Resources MMHS Journal - Volume 13 Do you have questions regarding admissions requirements and prerequisites for graduate and professional programs in healthcare? Not sure where to look? The graphics and research team at MMHS have put great time and effort into creating an easy, accessible hub to all this information. Visit our annual MMHS Journal to learn more about the admissions processes for various schools including writing applications, practicing interviews, and more! We are happy to announce the publication of our twelfth edition of the MMHS Journal of Health Careers and Opportunities this year! Be sure to check out this amazing resource on our website and look forward to upcoming dates for release on our social media.

Volume 12: 2022/2023 (Edition)

https://www.macmhs.com/journal

Our Sponsors

The Princeton Review (TPR)

BeMo

The Princeton Review®, a test preparation company that provides test preparation for standardised tests, tutoring, and admission tools, is once again one our sponsors this year. The Princeton Review®, provides guidance for graduate programs, including courses and MCAT® tutoring. For additional information visit www.princetonreview.com.

This year we are also glad to announce BeMo Academic Consulting® as a sponsor. BeMo® assists thousands of applicants get into undergraduate, graduate, or professional schools. Working with the individual to devise a personalized course of action to maximize chances of acceptance. BeMo® provides services such as personal statement editing, mock interviews, application review, CASPer® prep, and MCAT® prep, amongst other services. Be sure to check them out at https://bemoacademicconsulting.com

Prep 101 Prep101® offers a variety of prep courses across undergraduate programs in Canada helping students learn content more effectively. Prep101® also offers an MCAT® prep course, including workbooks, test banks and more. Training students to be able to overcome all types of questions through guided practice. Including developing understanding for each section, passage, question, and set of answer choices. For more information visit www.prep101.com

REMINDER Make sure to sign up as an MMHS general member to be able to qualify for the perks provided by these sponsors. Also make sure to look out for more information regarding giveaways or discounts on our Instagram, Facebook, and Discord, and more announcements for draws at our events.

Dear Reader, We sincerely, thank you for taking the time to explore our various events and initiatives that pique your interest. Throughout the year, our dedicated team strives to bring you insightful events to support your journey in medicine or health. Our mission at MMHS, is to make information on the multitude of diverse fields in healthcare more inclusive and accessible to all students, regardless of their background. Your feedback is crucial to achieving this goal, and we value every comment, striving to incorporate your insights into shaping future events. We encourage to take advantage of this fact by accessing one of the numerous feedback forms available to your throughout this issue. As we look forward to the upcoming year we invite you to become part of MMHS by signing up to be a General Member.

General Member Benefits Exclusive access to Research and Volunteer Opportunities on MS Teams Networking opportunities with healthcare students, workers, and professionals Discounts and coupons from sponsors save upto 30% on prep. courses for the MCAT, DAT, and OAT through The Princeton Review Priority to NEW mentorship program!! Notifications for all upcoming MMHS events Use this link to become an MMHS General Member today! https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YcD70iMcOxs2tur3 we-huuNfzDr6sPB5GizkBCovwqE/edit?usp=sharing

Editorial Board Heba Hanif Editor-In-Chief MMHS VP External 2022-23

Asim Shaikh MMHS Co-president 2023-24

Pranshu Maini MMHS Co-president 2023-24