Akshar Tailor

Attended Discovery Day in 2016
Akshar Tailor

What happened after high school?

After high school, I pursued a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Health Science as I was deeply interested in physiology and anatomy. It equipped me with the necessary knowledge, skills, and opportunities to explore careers within the healthcare field. Ultimately, I realized from my personal experiences, undergraduate studies, and volunteering in medical settings that a career in medicine is something I wanted to pursue. After completing my undergraduate degree, I took some time to work on a medical imaging project, travel, and explore my creative interests in designing, DJing, photography, and more. I started medical school at the University of Toronto shortly after! 

What do you remember from the Discovery Day event and what impact did it have on you?

Discovery Day was a pivotal moment in my journey towards becoming a physician. I remember attending the interventional radiology workshop where the physician demonstrated how an angioplasty is performed to open a blocked artery using a stent. The minimally invasive nature of this procedure was truly something that fascinated me as I had never realized such a complex intervention could be performed in this manner. This sparked my interest in delving deeper into the field of medicine. Discovery Days also provided me with exposure to many other healthcare fields that create an impact in patient-centered care – an opportunity that was truly unparalleled. This reinforced my understanding of the collaborative nature of healthcare and furthered my interest in pursuing medicine in the future. 

Any advice for high school students?

My advice for high school students is to explore your interests to find what you are passionate about. Whether through volunteering or other extracurriculars, this can give you a better understanding of the pathways you can take to reach your goals. Secondly, I would recommend connecting with mentors as they can provide guidance and support on your journey. This could be a teacher, friend, healthcare professional, or anyone that you hope to learn from. Lastly, a healthcare career requires life-long learning therefore it is important to take small steps towards your goals and embrace the journey along the way. 

About the CMHF

The Canadian Medical Hall of Fame (CMHF) celebrates Canadian heroes whose work advances health in Canada and the world, fostering future generations of health professionals through the delivery of local and national youth education programs and awards.

This enduring tribute to our country’s rich medical history is showcased here and in our physical exhibit hall in London, ON