I grew up on the Great Lakes of Northern Ontario, Canada, as part of a large family. In the summer we splashed about in Lake Superior on camping trips, while the cold, snowy winters were spent skiing. I was educated at a French school and my extra-curricular time was spent playing team sports, learning the piano and taking Highland dance lessons. I had enough siblings to form a baseball team, so there was endless fun and companionship and never a dull moment!

Doctors are goal-driven and always seeking the next career high. For me, getting to operate with world leaders in gynaecological cancer surgery and research is a huge privilege and one that is a constant source of inspiration. I get to be a part of bringing new life into the world and healing people, which is incredible and humbling; but, inevitably, lives are lost from time to time and this is a major low.

My biggest weakness is not going to bed on time. I often find that as the day draws to a close, I struggle to reward myself for what I have accomplished and instead focus on trying to tick a few more jobs off my to-do list. I suppose choosing a career that is known for long hours and busy night shifts has exacerbated my night owl tendencies! To address this, I am reading Matthew Walker’s book Why we Sleep, and making a conscious effort to go to bed early when I can.

Knuckle down from the start and realise that you are as impressive as the people working around you. Be specific in setting goals and be confident that you will achieve them. By surrounding yourself with the leaders in your field and staying focussed, you will be well placed for opportunities that are right in front of you.