The UBC Department of Orthopaedics would like to congratulate our outgoing trainees as they celebrate their achievements and look ahead to the next stage of their careers in orthopaedics! Meet a handful of our 2021 graduates and learn more about what’s next for them.
Adam McIntyre
UBC Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program
Hometown: Victoria, British Columbia
I was inspired to pursue orthopaedics during my undergraduate pre-medical studies. I was fascinated by musculoskeletal anatomy, and would later go on to become an anatomy lab assistant. In medical school, after my first orthopaedics clerkship rotation, I realized I had found my career – one that combined my interests in mechanical engineering, human anatomy, clinical and basic science, as well as technological research.
The single most important thing I learned in my residency training is: get on bone, stay on bone.
Following graduation, I will be completing a Hip and Knee Reconstruction Fellowship at Western University followed by Trauma Fellowship at the Royal Columbian.
David Stockton
UBC Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program
Hometown: Vancouver, British Columbia
I realized early on my orthopaedic clerkship rotations in medical school that this was the one and only specialty in medicine in which I wanted to pursue a career. The anatomy, the biomechanics, the focus on return to function, and the evolving nature of orthopaedic technology and evidence are all parts of orthopaedic surgery that I particularly enjoy. I developed a significant amount of respect for this collegial group of surgeons who were able to provide tangible patient outcomes in a short time frame, so I made it my goal to join their ranks one day.
The most important thing I’ve learned in the program is to put the patient first, always.
In terms of what’s next for me, I will be completing a fellowship in Orthopaedic Trauma at the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore, Maryland.
Njalalle Baraza
UBC Pediatric Orthopaedic Fellowship Program
Hometown: Nairobi, Kenya
I chose to pursue orthopaedics because of the inspiring mentors I met when I was a junior. I also saw plenty of treatable and needless musculoskeletal disabilities and I wanted to get involved.
There’s been so many important things I’ve learned! Most notably, adhere to the principles and to basic science whilst keeping abreast with the latest evidence and build extensive networks – the quest of making this world a better place is complex and hard. Allies certainly help!
Up next, I will be returning to work in Nairobi where I will build the pediatric orthopaedic wing of my hospital. I will also continue work on my charity whose vision is sanitation and quality healthcare for the people of East Africa. In addition, I will be looking to start a string quartet… please let me know if you know any musicians in Nairobi…
Sean Kelly
UBC Pediatric Orthopaedic Fellowship Program
Hometown: Boston, Massachusetts
My inspiration to pursue orthopaedics: “Whosoever holds the hammer of Mjolnir, if they be worthy, shall possess the power of Thor.”
The most important thing I’ve learned is that giving back is an integral part of advancing medicine and orthopaedics.
After graduation, I will be heading to London, Ontario to begin an Adult Spine Fellowship.
Supriya Singh
UBC Pediatric Orthopaedic Spine Fellowship Program
Hometown: Carrying Place, Ontario
My inspiration to pursue orthopaedics was in part mentorship as well as, the challenge of orthopaedics. The hands on nature of our training and the satisfaction of fixing something that is broken is gratifying.
At British Columbia’s Children’s Hospital this year, the most important thing I learned was the value of a dedicated sub-specialized OR team for the efficiency and improved patient outcomes.
Soon, I will be returning to London, Ontario to practice spine surgery and am looking forward to putting into practice what I have learned over the past 2 years in B.C.
The UBC Department of Orthopaedics offers training in the UBC MD Undergraduate Program, the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons accredited Residency Program, a number of sub-specialty Clinical Fellowships, as well as Continuing Professional Development opportunities. Learn more about our educational opportunities.
