Denna Flett

There are many reasons I have chosen to become a doctor, and many of these reasons stem from a love for learning. Whether we’re studying human physiology, patient stories, or diseases and disorders — becoming a doctor means we are making a commitment to lifelong learning. This sentiment extends deeper for me.

I lost my relationship with my Indigenous father at a young age. Not only this, but I grew up in a community where there was a negative perception of Indigenous people. Ultimately, I grew distant and ashamed of my ancestry.

While I didn’t know it at the time, coming to UBC for my undergraduate degree was pivotal in changing my outlook. For the first time, I was part of a community that supported Indigenous students and took pride in them. Whether it was the support of advisors, the Longhouse, or peers, I felt uplifted. Additionally, it was at UBC that I learned the story of Dr. Michael Dumont, who combines traditional and Western medical practices at Lu’ma Medical Centre to better serve urban Indigenous patients. Until that point, I had never considered studying medicine as a chance to learn about my culture.

For me, becoming a doctor not only means I can learn about the science I am fascinated by, but it means I have the opportunity to learn more about my culture and how it can be intertwined with medicine. It means I can take part in building a healthier future for my community. Becoming a doctor means I can once again, develop a proud connection to my community.