This week is Resident Appreciation Week, a time to recognize and celebrate the incredible contributions made by our resident physicians. Medical residents work tirelessly to provide high-quality care to patients while balancing the demands of their rigorous training programs. Resident physicians are an essential part of our healthcare system, bringing energy, expertise and compassion to their work every day, and they are the future of medicine in Nova Scotia.
Meet Dr. Maya Venkataraman, a first-year Dalhousie medical resident in the Halifax-South Shore Family Medicine program. Originally from Summerland, BC, Dr. Venkataraman’s journey into medicine has been a rewarding, full-circle experience.
Dr. Venkataraman made her way east to Halifax to attend Dalhousie University, where she pursued a degree in Medical Sciences.
After completing her undergraduate degree, Dr. Venkataraman returned to Vancouver to attend medical school at the University of British Columbia. Despite the vibrant energy of the West Coast, she found herself missing the East Coast, especially with her partner still living in Halifax. When the opportunity to return to Dalhousie for her residency came, Dr. Venkataraman didn’t hesitate. "I was so happy to match with Dalhousie for residency and move back to the East Coast," she said. Not only has she been able to reunite with friends from her undergrad years, but she’s also been able to continue her medical journey.
Growing up, her father, a small-town family physician in BC, was a significant influence on her. “I was always inspired by my dad and his work in family medicine,” she explained. “His role in the community and the relationships he built with his patients really resonated with me.”
While in medical school, Dr. Venkataraman gravitated toward family medicine, particularly after completing her family practice rotations. The diversity of the work and the opportunity to form long-term relationships with patients confirmed that it was the right fit for her. "Family medicine allows you to work with a wide range of people, from children to elderly patients. It’s so fulfilling to be involved in all aspects of a person’s health, and I love the variety of challenges it brings," she added.
One of the most significant moments in Dr. Venkataraman’s medical career so far came during a rural family practice rotation in BC while in medical school. While working an emergency department shift, she received a call to deliver her first baby. “It was such a rewarding day, and it reaffirmed my interest in full-scope, generalist practice,” she recalled. This experience highlighted her passion for working in a field that offers such a wide range of opportunities, from emergency care to prenatal services.
Dr. Venkataraman offered the following advice to those considering a career in medicine, “Reach out to someone currently in medical school or who has recently graduated,” she suggested. “Many people are open to sharing their experiences and offering insights into the realities of medical training. It’s also helpful to hear firsthand about the application process and what to expect in medical school.”
As for those about to start residency, Dr. Venkataraman recommended taking time to recharge before diving into the demands of the program. “Residency can be intense, with long hours and a steep learning curve. Starting off feeling refreshed can make all the difference.”
When she’s not in the clinic or hospital, Dr. Venkataraman enjoys road biking, a hobby that has taken her on several international trips. “I’ve had the opportunity to bike in Slovenia, Italy and Spain, and it’s been incredible,” she shared. This past summer, while living in Lunenburg, she experienced some of the best biking of her life. “The quiet, scenic routes with ocean views felt like a hidden gem,” she said. “I’m excited to get back out there this summer and explore more.” For Dr. Venkataraman, cycling is more than exercise - it’s a way to connect with nature and unwind from the demands of medical training.
As Dr. Venkataraman continues her residency in family medicine, she looks forward to furthering her skills and making a difference in the communities she serves. Her journey, filled with personal and professional milestones, is a testament to the rewards of following one’s passion and embracing the diverse, ever-evolving field of family medicine.
Photo of Dr. Maya Venkataraman.
