Dr. Amritpal Singh Arora is a Family Physician and Clinical Assistant Professor at UBC, also serving as an Academic Advisor for the MD program. A strong believer in the value of mentorship, especially for BIPOC students, he seeks to guide others based on his own experiences and growth.
Work Title | Company:
- Family Physician
- Clinical Assistant Professor, UBC Dept. Family Practice
- Academic Advisor, MD undergraduate program, Faculty of Medicine, UBC
- Faculty for Curriculum, Vancouver Fraser Family Medicine Residency Site, UBC Dept. Family Practice
Why did you decide to become a mentor with Beedie Luminaries?
I believe strongly in the value of mentorship. I particularly think it is important for BIPOC students to have access to mentors with a similar lived experience. When I was in university, it was difficult for BIPOC students to access relatable mentors, not because they did not exist but more due to the fact they were not being given voice and space by our institutions. Although we still have plenty of work to do, I believe things are improving. I see it as an important role for me to offer my experience and expertise to guide current students so as they may achieve their full potential.
What was your favourite subject in school?
I never had one particular favourite but always enjoyed the areas of biology and human physiology. Increasingly, however, I am seeing the value of having some grounding in the arts, philosophy etc. I believe we should all should strive to be well informed, well-read and well-rounded.
Do you have a “favorite failure” of yours?
I do not see past experiences that may not have met expectations as failures. I see them as necessary lessons, points of introspection and motivators for growth. Ultimately, I am where I am today due to these points in my life and am thankful I had or developed the skills to navigate through them.
What book(s) have greatly influenced your life?
Non-fiction: Grit by Angela Duckworth and The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F**K by Mark Manson
Fiction: A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry
What advice would you give to post-secondary students as they prepare to transition into the working world?
My advice would be to take your time finding your niche. Growth and development are not linear. We cannot expect all our goals to neatly fall into place. Have patience, take your time to figure out what goals are truly worthy of your effort.
What / where is your happy place?
In front of a fireplace with a cup of coffee.
What is a dream you have that you’ve yet to achieve?
I would like to publish a book of poetry. Work in progress!
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