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» Home » Student Profiles » William Yao

William Yao

By Alex Tsui | May 12, 2025

Hometown: Hamilton, ON
Program: Anesthesiology Residency Program, Vancouver

What attracted you to your field?

My interest in anesthesiology began with a fascination for how physiological systems can be manipulated to keep patients safe during surgery. Over time, I’ve come to value the specialty’s depth even more. Anesthesiologists support patients through vulnerable moments, work closely with multidisciplinary teams and draw on both specialist and generalist knowledge. The variety is exciting—within hours, I could provide labour analgesia, pivot to anesthesia for emergency surgery and diagnose and treat a patient with pain. This dynamic, impactful role, combining clinical precision with human connection is what continues to draw me to anesthesiology. 

What is your favourite moment from your time at UBC?

One of my favourite moments in residency was forming lasting friendships with my co-residents. Amid the long hours and intense learning, we supported each other through shared struggles and celebrated small wins together. Whether it was late-night call room chats or decompressing over coffee after a tough shift, those moments built a sense of camaraderie that made the challenges more manageable and the journey more meaningful.

What is one piece of advice you have for students entering your program?

Don’t feel pressured to fit into a mold—there’s space in medicine for every kind of personality and no single personality defines success. Stay true to yourself and focus on becoming the physician you aspire to be. Residency will challenge you, but your co-residents and mentors will be there to support you every step of the way. Embrace the journey and know that in the end you will be an excellent physician. 

What’s next for you?

I’m staying in British Columbia following residency to work at Surrey Memorial Hospital. I’m excited to be joining a group that so greatly supported and enhanced my learning throughout training. Once residency finishes, I look forward to taking more time for myself, traveling and spending time with my dog.  

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