Kyle Irvine is a student in the Northern Medical Program's Class of 2019, and is the 2017 recipient of the Rising Star of Health Service award provided through the Northern Medical Programs Trust. The award is given to students who demonstrate exceptional promise as a future health care practitioner in/for Northern B.C.

Photo: Kyle Irvine (left) with Lyn Hall, mayor of Prince George.

What drew you to medicine?

My grandfather was a general surgeon in Dawson Creek and my mom is a diabetes nurse educator in the Bulkley Valley, so my interest in health care started early on! And with my background in athletics (which came with a long list of injuries!), I also became fascinated with the human body and its resilience.

Why did you choose to study in the NMP?

I loved the idea of being part of a small class size that lets you to get to know your classmates better and interact more with the faculty. I also wanted to be able to train in a smaller town. I'm definitely a northern boy at heart.

What did you enjoy the most about your medical studies?

Prince George has been a great town to train in. The faculty, staff and preceptors are so friendly and make an effort to get to know you on a more personal level. The patients you see are excited that you’re here and are very proud of the program. As a student group, we had the opportunity to build relationships with the classes above and below us, and we have all become quite close as an NMP cohort.

What are your plans for future practice?

I want to practice in a smaller community. I loved growing up in the North and that's where I want to raise a family. I look forward to becoming part of a profession that can have such a profound impact on a person, on a family, and on a community. As a physician, I will have the ability to work in very remote regions and bring health care to those that need it most.