Faces of U of T Medicine: Hira Raheel
Hira Raheel isn’t new to U of T – she did her Master’s at the Institute of Medical Science. Her passion for biology, research and helping others drew her to medicine. Now, she’ll be joining the incoming MD Class of 2T2 as a first-year medical student. She spoke to Faculty of Medicine writer Julia Soudat about why she chose U of T and the role models who’ve helped her along the way.
What made you want to become a doctor?
Having a sister with special needs, doctor visits were all too common. Those visits exposed me to both good and bad experiences with physicians. I realized early on that a good health care provider can make the most difficult situation easier to manage for the patient and their family. To this day, my family remembers all the exceptional doctors who treated my sister. I knew I wanted be a doctor who could make a lasting impact on the lives of my patients.
Have you had mentors or role models who’ve helped you along the way?
My undergraduate thesis supervisor, Dr. Julia Green-Johnson, is one of the first academic role models I had. Her passion and dedication to immunology and microbiology helped to truly love biology and pursue research. Without her encouragement I would not have considered completing a Master’s degree. During my Master’s at U of T, I was lucky enough to have a few academic role models. My supervisor Dr. Warren Lee, a clinician-scientists at St. Michael’s Hospital, pushed me to excel during my Master’s and provided me opportunities to develop as a researcher. Additionally, one of my project advisory committee members, Dr. Lisa Robinson, was a great role model and mentor. As a woman and a member of a minority group, she showed me that it is possible to have a successful professional and personal life.
What specialty do you hope to pursue and why?
I want to be a doctor who can have a long-term role and impact on my patients lives, so I think I would like to specialize in pediatrics or family medicine with a sub-speciality in obstetrics.
How did it feel when you got your acceptance letter?
It was a surreal feeling. I just landed in Toronto after a 14-hour flight, during which I couldn’t sleep because I knew I would be receiving the email with the final decision. I checked my email the moment the plane and I was in tears. The passengers next to me were concerned, so I had to share the great news with complete strangers! It also took me a long time to find my luggage because I was in shock. It’s truly a humbling feeling to be able to pursue my dream career.
If you got accepted to other medical schools, why did you choose U of T?
U of T my first and only choice! Doing my Master’s here made me realize that it’s truly the best institute for medical education, both clinically and academically. I knew I wanted to stay at U of T for my medical education from the moment I applied. The opportunities for medical training available here are far greater than anywhere else. Plus, Toronto is a great city to live in, with lots of amazing ice cream spots!
What are you most looking forward to as a UofTMed student?
I look forward to the unique clinical opportunities UofTMed has to offer with its vast network of hospitals and clinics in both highly urban and suburban communities, and the diverse patient populations I will have the opportunity to interact with. I’m also excited for all the available research opportunities and the ability to continue pursuing my interest in medical research.
What do you think the biggest challenges will be?
The biggest challenge will be transitioning from a research-based Master’s program to a more standard educational program. My Master’s was more like a full-time job than school. After three years of a very different learning experience, going back to a traditional format of schooling will require me to re-develop study techniques and adjust to the routine. But I hope that having a close circle of friends and the support of U of T faculty will help me overcome barriers as they arise.
Also, this will be the first time I will be living away from my family, who are a huge part of my life. Living independently will pose its own unique trials, but I hope this experience will help me grow as a person.
What do you like to do outside of school?
I love being involved in leadership opportunities in the communities I am a part of. I’m also passionate about teaching and mentoring kids and passing on my love for science.
I love food, both making it and eating it. Doing my Master’s at U of T, I had the chance to explore the Toronto food scene and look forward to continuing that – especially when it comes to desserts!
Faces of U of T Medicine introduces you to some of the interesting people studying in the Faculty of Medicine. From advising political leaders to providing care to Toronto’s most vulnerable populations, members of our community are having an impact at home and around the world.
Do you have an interesting story to share? Contact us at medicine.communications@utoronto.ca.