Embedded Files
Welcome Class of 2030!
Class of 2029
Congratulations on your acceptance to the University of Alberta Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry! You've got an exciting year ahead, and the class of 2029 can't wait to meet you!
As the Orientation Committee for 2026, our role is to make sure the Class of 2030 is received with the warmest welcome! We have an exciting week of events planned, designed to make you all feel at home at the University of Alberta, and give you endless opportunities to meet your classmates (and future colleagues)!
Contact info: msaorien@ualberta.ca
Meet Your O-Week 2026 Team!
Aislinn
Aislinn
Hometown: Edmonton, AB
Previous Degree: Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, Master of Science in Rehabilitation Science
About: Hi, I'm Aislinn! When I'm not at school, you'll usually find me at the rink coaching figure skating, checking out a new restaurant in the city, or convincing myself I definitely need another new outfit. I also love travelling, skiing, eating ice cream year-round, and spending time with friends and family. I have a hard time saying no to new opportunities, so you'll probably see me around campus more often than not. I'm always happy to meet new people, so don't be afraid to come say hi. I can't wait to welcome the Class of 2030!
Fun Fact: I'm my parents' favourite child (I'm an only child)
Advice for First Year: Don't feel like you need to have everything figured out on day one, no one does! Med school can feel overwhelming at first, but everyone is learning together. Be open to trying new things, ask for help when you need it, and don't be afraid to introduce yourself to people. Some of my favourite memories have come from saying yes to opportunities and getting involved, so make the most of your time here!
Austin
Austin
Hometown: Coquitlam, BC
Previous Degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
About: Hey everyone, I'm Austin! Before med school, I worked as a nurse in rural and remote communities across the Yukon, which was honestly one of the most rewarding and chaotic experiences ever. Outside of medicine, I’m big into travelling, soccer, and anything outdoors. One of the coolest things I’ve done was hiking Machu Picchu with Daniel, which led to some unreal memories and stories. I’m also into hiking, snowboarding, fishing, gymming, going on late-night food runs, and saying yes to spontaneous plans way too easily. Excited to meet everyone and help make this year unforgettable for the Class of 2030!
Fun Fact: Someone once told me I’m the smartest dumbest person they know, and honestly, that might be the most accurate description of me haha.
Advice for First Year: Don’t make medicine your entire personality
Daniel
Daniel
Hometown: Surrey, BC
Previous Degree: Bachelor of Kinesiology
About: Hey everyone, I'm Daniel! It's exciting to be on this side writing, as opposed to reading these biographies, which I vividly remember doing this time last year. Before medical school, I owned a small business after finishing my degree. I am an obsessive serial hobbyist and have made the jump between many random interests. However, given how busy school and life can be now, my big priority is to keep up in both exercise and the kitchen. I'm sure we'll have something in common so I hope you challenge that belief. Congratulations on all of the hard work you put to get here. Don't be shy and come say hi!
Fun Fact: I went to the emergency room on the day of our White Coat Ceremony (ask me why) and I still somehow managed to make it!
Advice for First Year: Someone in an upper year gave us a great perspective on medical school: think of it like a race where everyone starts in the middle and runs outward in different directions—toward research, hobbies, studying, or personal life. Even if someone seems miles ahead of you in one area, remember that everyone is running toward a different finish line. Find your own direction!
Keanna
Keanna
Hometown: Calgary, AB
Previous Degree: Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
About: Hey guys, I'm Keanna! Before starting med school, I spent a year living in Denmark, where I took 6 months of language lessons and successfully learned zero Danish. To make up for it, I speak fluent Bad Bunny, who you will always find me listening to. My other main hobby is signing up for things I am completely unprepared for, including climbing competitions, half marathons, and ski trips. My roomie taught me how to ski in undergrad, and I am still a work in progress. If anyone is down to go, let me know! Otherwise, I love running, going to the gym, playing instruments, annoying my twin, and hanging out with friends. Can't wait to meet everyone!
Fun Fact: I shaved my head in grade 7.
Advice for First year: My biggest piece of advice is to not hold yourself to an impossible standard and remember that it is okay to stumble while you learn. Embrace being a beginner again, because making mistakes is just part of the process. Use this year to say yes to new opportunities, like exploring a medical specialty you know nothing about or signing up for intramural water polo! Med school is a marathon, so protect your peace, keep up with the things you love, and always carve out a life away from the desk.
Tess
Tess
Hometown: Calgary, AB
Previous Degree: Bachelor of Science in Physiology
About: Hi, I’m Tess! Before medicine, I was a piano teacher and have unfortunately listened to more renditions of “Ode to Joy” than Beethoven himself. I’m a huge music fan in general and have over 200 playlists, one of which I’m probably listening to at any given moment. I also love making clothes and am writing this beside a half-finished pair of slippers for my best friend, who has been patiently waiting for me to finish them. I used to play volleyball, but now I stay active by playing squash (I have yet to win a game), going to spin, and (loosely) training for a sprint triathlon. My goal for the year is to relearn the American Sign Language I studied during undergrad, so if anyone knows ASL, email me and let’s practice together!
Fun Fact: I am also part of the UofA’s general Undergraduate O-Week and host a session on safe sex!
Advice for First Year: Med school isn’t just about medicine; it’s also about meeting new friends and having lots of fun. Don’t fall for the myth that studying medicine means putting your life on hold. The next four years won’t be “all work, no play” unless you want them to be. Work hard, but don't forget to make time to meet people and try new things. Use O-week as an opportunity to talk to people and find a community within the class. The people I met during O-Week are now some of my best friends, and I can't imagine med school without them!
C2029 Legacy Video
The Survival Guide will be made available shortly!
Page updated
Report abuse