Resident Perspective
Why did you choose to train at the University of Alberta?
Kevin, CIP, General Surgery
Exposure to one of the highest case volumes across Canada combined with case complexity not seen elsewhere in Canada because of our huge patient referral area with opportunity for independence and mentorship was the perfect combination for what I wanted out of residency. Edmonton is big enough to be the referral center for a lot of things in Western Canada, but small enough that residents are expected to take ownership of patients; this allows residents in Edmonton to stand out.
Betty, PGY-3, Urology
In my opinion, we have, arguably, one of the best surgical training programs in the country, especially urology, the surgical exposure and volume is incomparable elsewhere. Throughout my electives, I've had a great time working here, and I've only heard good things about our programs (not just urology) while I was away on elective. Ultimately, everything just felt "right."
Mathew, PGY-4, Orthopedic Surgery
I chose to train at U of A because of their reputation of producing highly skilled surgeons and being on the leading edge of innovation.
Justin, PGY-4, Otolaryngology
My decision to train at the U of A was based on a number of factors. The world-class research and patient care facilities allow for exemplary exposure to the academic and clinical side of medicine. There are numerous learning opportunities based on common and uncommon medical problems due to the high catchment volume of the region, a great value for someone like myself who learns best based on repetition. Additionally, my program exposes you to a high degree of clinical and operative experience starting in your PGY-1 year, allowing you to build on your confidence to make appropriate decisions right from the start. The friendly and outgoing staff and co-residents contribute to a relaxed and comfortable learning environment allowing you to become a very competent Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgeon by the end of your residency.
Jordan, recent graduate, General Surgery
We have a great group of residents that make the process of learning to be a surgeon a lot of fun. Also, the administration and staff are very supportive of the residents. Overall an excellent environment to train in.
Ben, recent graduate, Urology
Excellent training program with great people. While almost all Urology programs in Canada are very strong, what pushed U of A over the top for me was the people. Both in terms residents and staff surgeons. I found my time in Edmonton was a blast and I had fun working with and learning from everyone here. The personality fit was very important to me and the culture here is less formal and there is plenty of laughter. Most importantly, the resident group is very tight knit and supportive. It is not unusual for the day team to stay late and help out the on call resident so as not to leave them swamped. It's a great feeling knowing that your co-residents have your back.
Max, recent graduate, Cardiac Surgery
Our program probably has one of the best balances in Canada between being hands on with lots of OR experience and exposing you to the advanced aspects of cardiac surgery, whether that be VAD's, TAVI's, congenital, complex aortic work, etc. Often programs are really good at one or the other, but not both.
What do you like about the
City of Edmonton?
City of Edmonton?
Alex, PGY-2, Urology
Lots of local pubs/restaurants on Whyte Ave, summer festivals, proximity to national parks (Elk Island, Banff, Jasper), riverside and ravine trails in town, lots of golf courses.
Mike, PGY-4, Neurosurgery
When I moved to the city, I immediately felt a sense of pride from Edmontonians in their city. Citizens are engaged in their communities, support local projects, and are up to speed on current events in city development and governance. The Oilers are an exciting team to follow with their new arena and recent history of outstanding players. Access to outdoor activities, mountains, and lakes make for a close refuge from the busy demands of a surgical residency.
Devin, PGY-2, Cardiac Surgery
I enjoy that it is a big city, but has small town vibes. Lots of great food and breweries to explore. There is also tons of trails and parks to explore. A bonus is you're a close drive to the mountains.
Kieran, PGY-3, General Surgery
Edmonton is a thriving community that is continuing to grow. There is always a festival, sporting event or new restaurant to attend. In addition, the Rocky Mountains are a short drive away and access to world class skiing is available during weekend getaways.
Justin, PGY-4, Otolaryngology
Many hidden gems. Beautiful views of the hillside and North Saskatchewan River valley afforded year-round. Ice Castles - just west of the hospital, offer an amazing experience of frozen architecture that you really need to see to fully appreciate. There are plenty of fantastic restaurants to explore, and we have an NHL team with arguably the best young player in the league! Mountains.
Joanna, PGY-4, General Surgery
There is always something exciting going on in Edmonton from festivals in the summer to winter events at the Legislature to the thriving culinary scene. We are also close enough for a weekend getaway to Banff or Jasper and Elk Island National Park is only 45 minutes outside of the city.
Kirsten, PGY-5, Plastic Surgery
It is my hometown, but I've been away for over 12 years, and it has changed so much! There are so many good restaurants now, and there are always amazing activities and festivals around the city!
Matt, recent graduate, Plastic Surgery
Edmonton has all the amenities that a major city should with great areas of cuisine, nightlife, and activity. The Jasper ave and Whyte ave areas exemplify this with amazing restaurants and bars. In addition the mountains are close for all your outdoor needs.
Scott, recent graduate, Otolaryngology
Edmonton has been the biggest surprise with my residency at the U of A. I have taken full of advantage of the great and expanding food scene, the burgeoning downtown Ice District (when the Oilers are good) and all of the running, hiking and biking in the largest urban green space in North America in the river valley. A world best for camping, biking, hiking and skiing is only a short drive away in the Rocky Mountains. I am happy and grateful for my time in Edmonton and I know others would be too.
What makes your program extraordinary?
Adrian, PGY-2, Plastic Surgery
The UofA Plastic Surgery Residency Program sees some of the highest volume in the country and has plenty of opportunity for residents to be involved in the OR starting in the beginning of R1. The diversity and skill of the staff is unmatched and their dedication to teaching and improvement in resident education was evident from the first day of residency. The residents all work together well as a team and you are always supported as a resident both in the hospital and at home.
Julianna, PGY-2, Otolaryngology
The program has a great vibe. Awesome mentorship and fun people to work with. Always great conversation in the OR. Also one of the strongest programs in the country.
Ahmad, PGY-3, Orthopedic Surgery
The small number of residents and the high volume of cases is what makes our program special because we get a lot of experience and hands-on training.
Elizabeth, recent graduate,
General Surgery
General Surgery
For me, this distilled down to the people. Staff, other residents and administrative people who all work hard and are committed to graduating strong surgeons and continuously making the program better.
Brandon, PGY-4, Otolaryngology
The U of A program stands out for its unparalleled surgical volume, leading research opportunities, and great teaching. The people involved in the program are top notch; from staff to residents to admin, everyone is committed to helping you perform at the highest level.
Devin, PGY-2, Cardiac Surgery
In my first three months as a resident, I was able to open and close the chest on my own, where some surgical colleagues barely make it into an operating room in R1. You also act as a chief resident in many aspects from as early as day 2 of your residency. You have your own service as we do individual rounding, where you make all of the decisions and communicate with your staff directly. The staff surgeons in the Cardiac Surgery program truly have your back and push you to be excellent. We also have great support on our floor from extremely competent nurses and nurse practitioners.
Shaun, recent graduate, General Surgery
There are opportunities for learning, research and having fun at every turn. The senior resident group and staff are dedicated to teaching and have an open and inviting culture that makes this program the place to be.
Courtney, recent graduate,
Plastic Surgery
Plastic Surgery
High volume load and appropriate independence. A very hands on program. Staff are all fellowship trained with expertise while still offering great exposure to general plastics. Our academic half days are reverse classroom style, one of the best forms of learning and consolidating memory in my opinion.
Mike, PGY-4, Neurosurgery
We have a high ratio of staff to residents, meaning our clinical exposure is vast and enriched. Our staff are represented from all sub-specialties of neurosurgical expertise. Several of our staff have senior roles at the Royal College level of education, and this is reflected in our teaching program to prepare our residents for licensing examinations. We have a camaraderie amongst our residents and a narrow gap in social hierarchy between our residents and staff, meaning we always feel supported and safe.
Keir, PGY-4, Cardiac Surgery
Cardiac Surgery at the MAZ is unique because trainees get the best of everything: operating from day one, lots of independence and responsibility, great staff and colleagues, and fantastic opportunities for translational research. Ultimately, it’s the full system of support that a trainee needs to become a leading cardiac surgeon.