Q&A with Shayan Novin
Learn about Shayan's experience as Program Assistant at the Master’s of Health Science Education (HSED) Program at McMaster University.
Welcome to the Invite Health newsletter. These newsletters will contain a roundup of student opportunities related to Canadian healthcare, including jobs, organizations, events, and more! We also highlight and interview students making an impact in Canadian healthcare. 💌
This week, meet Shayan! 📬
In this newsletter, I reached out to Shayan Novin, to ask about his experience working at the Master’s of Health Science Education (HSED) Program at McMaster University. Read through our discussion here, to learn about the impactful work he did!
Q&A with Shayan Novin, Program Assistant at the Master’s of Health Science Education (HSED) Program at McMaster University 📖
First off, tell us about yourself! What inspired you to enter your current field of study, where do you go to school, and what are your aspirations? What else do you like to do outside of studying?
Hello readers! My name is Shayan Novin (he/him) and I am in my fourth year of studying Health Sciences (core stream) at McMaster University. I chose this program as it takes an unconventional approach in examining health and healthcare. The curriculum appreciates the societal and systems-based influences on patient wellness, the role of social dynamics in interdisciplinary care teams, and the importance of regulating oneself when navigating difficult situations. I found this unique take to be invaluable and a great opportunity to challenge my preconceptions of both health and myself.
Outside of studying, I enjoy spending time with friends, playing the flute, and playing lots of video games. I also take time to tutor elementary school children to help enrich their educational experiences.
Can you talk about the experience that you had this summer?
This summer, I joined the Master’s of Health Science Education (HSED) Program at McMaster University as a Program Assistant. In this full-time, in-person position, I worked closely with academic and medical doctors in delivering Master’s-level education to practicing healthcare professionals. Additionally, I worked alongside the HSED Office and Assistant Dean in executing program initiatives to enhance the educational experience of our students.
How did you come across this opportunity?
I came across this position via a university posting that was sent out in late February (2022). I read into the University program and was intrigued by its purpose, which ultimately prompted me to apply. It was nice to see that the position was relatively flexible in hours and modality (i.e., virtual versus in-person).
What were some of the most notable highlights that you had from the experience?
I think the most memorable highlight from my summer work with HSED would be Residency Week. Residency Week I and II are week-long, in-person course requirements where students come to McMaster campus and collaborate on various HSED-based projects. As a member of the HSED team, I had the opportunity to set up various components of course delivery (i.e., visuals, hand-outs, administrative logistics). This was definitely a long-term project that demanded a keen eye for detail and good team synergy. In the end, I found the entire process — and the nice memories of Residency Week — to be rewarding.
Did this experience lead you to pursue any other related opportunities?
For one, I am continuing to work (part-time) as an HSED Program Assistant. Additionally, I have had the opportunity to interact closely with McMaster professors and learn more about their area(s) of study. I successfully pitched (and am now executing) a project with one professor where we will audit Bachelor of Health Science courses to promote queer inclusivity.
Where can students go if they want to learn more about this program?
I am more than happy to talk through my LinkedIn — just shoot me a private message!
Is there anything else that you would like to add for Invite Health readers?
This is a general philosophy that I live by (it has not failed me yet): explore, explore, explore! Be open to opportunities — even if they do not immediately strike you as ‘in-line’ with your personal vision of success. Sometimes, we gain valuable personal growth and important career milestones in places that we least expect them.
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We write newsletters that feature a roundup of student opportunities (jobs, events, organizations, etc.) related to Canadian healthcare. We also interview students making an impact in Canadian healthcare.
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