What's our profession really like?
Students find out at Alberta Medical Students' Conference and Retreat in Banff
April 7, 2015
On the weekend of January 23-25, over 320 medical students from the University of Alberta (U of A) and University of Calgary (U of C) convened at the Banff Convention Centre for the 11th annual Alberta Medical Students’ Conference and Retreat (AMSCAR). AMSCAR 2015 welcomed future physicians from Alberta’s two medical schools to gather, network and connect amongst not only each other, but also with practicing physicians and health care organizations. This event served as a great opportunity for students to learn about physician wellness and develop strategies to live healthy lifestyles as future professionals through a collection of keynote speakers, activities and group sessions.
AMSCAR is an event where medical students across the province come together and mingle as future colleagues. With a diverse assortment of sessions ranging from clinical skills and artistic endeavors, physical activities, relaxation techniques, physical wellness and coping with stress workshops, students were able to participate in activities catered to their interests. On Sunday, students had the opportunity to engage in a relaxation activity of their choice. Many spent the day on the ski slopes, while others explored the town of Banff. One of the goals of AMSCAR was bridging gaps between the schools while also learning about strategies for personal and professional wellness.
Alberta Medical Association (AMA) President-Elect Dr. Carl W. Nohr was heavily involved throughout the weekend, greeting medical students from both schools upon arrival and actively encouraging them to get involved in the profession. Dr. Nohr gave one of the keynote addresses during the event, sharing memorable experiences from his career as a general surgeon to highlight the importance of work-life harmony.
Students appreciated the depth and diversity of topics presented by the keynote speakers. Dr. Owen Heisler Assistant Registrar College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta, raised awareness on the importance of life balance and practical ethics. Mark Anielski, president and CEO of Anielski Management Inc., professor of the School of Business at the U of A and author of “The Economics of Happiness,” shared his perspective on pursuing happiness with a witty economics twist. Rahim Sajan, curator of TEDxCalgary and public school teacher in Calgary, addressed the importance of community leadership and inter-professionalism.
“AMSCAR 2015 successfully brought together community stakeholders and medical students to promote mental well-being and student resilience, and impart tangible health and wellness strategies," said Samantha Lam President AMSCAR Committee. “The AMSCAR Committee had members from both schools who spent countless hours planning and hosting a unique and worthwhile event that united students from both schools for a common purpose. Students had a safe environment to try new activities and learn about topics as they explored what health and wellness meant to them. This year, we expanded offerings to include more artistic outlets. We are incredibly thankful to our speakers, who inspired and challenged us with their wit, stories and questions, and our passionate session presenters, who shared their talent and time with our students so that we had the opportunity to learn. The committee and students are indebted to all our supporters and will do our utmost to be healthy and well physicians of the future.”
The AMSCAR Committee has worked hard over the last year in planning and making this event possible for Alberta’s medical students. As well, such a grand and memorable event would not have been possible without the generous contributions of sponsors, including the AMA, who believe in the cause. The support we received, making this event financially accessible for all students, makes us feel supported and united as members of the profession.
With the weekend of relaxation and wellness coming to a close, students returned home with a newfound perspective on a healthier lifestyle and work-life balance. We have an increased awareness of the challenges tomorrow’s physicians will face, as well as strategies to cope with them. AMSCAR 2015 was an unforgettable experience for Alberta’s medical students and instilled a renewed sense of resilience, health and well-being.
To learn more about AMSCAR, please visit the website at amscar2015.wordpress.com
