Ilana Hanes
Career Path: Medicine (Pediatric Neurology)
- Doctor of Medicine (McMaster University)
Biography
At the time of writing this bio, I am a pediatric neurology resident physician in my third year of training at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario. This means that I have finished medical school and am now working towards my specialization in Pediatric Neurology.
When I first started my undergraduate degree at Carleton, the neuroscience program was brand new and VERY small. There were only eight students in my graduating class! At the time, what stood out to me was the professors in the department. They were so invested in teaching and sharing their love for neuroscience. This really is where I discovered my passion and love for the brain. Now, I am truly blown away with how the department has grown and the amazing courses they offer.
Not only was the neuroscience program a fantastic program, but Carleton University is an amazing place! I loved my experienced on campus and made some amazing friends who I am still in touch with – one is even doing her residency in Neurology as well!
Advice for Current Students
My advice for current or incoming students would be to not worry about what you might do after your undergraduate before you’ve even really started. Be invested in learning! Exploring different areas of neuroscience and find what you are passionate about.
My advice for those pursuing medicine is the same as above. Of course, there will be certain requirements for medical school and helpful to keep them in mind during your undergraduate degree, but you should still enjoy your experience at Carleton in neuroscience! Not everyone takes a “traditional” route to medicine – I took a year off to work and travel after my undergrad followed by a Masters degree before medical school.