Learning through exposure is how Doctor Evaristus Idanwekhai, (Dr. Eva) believes medical students learn best.
Providing the opportunity for students to learn hands on is “hard work, but it is very satisfying,” he said.
Melanie van Soeren is currently serving a rotation with Dr. Eva at both the Cascade Medical Centre and the Princeton General Hospital emergency room.
She has also had experiences with home care nursing staff and Nurse Practitioner, Tanya ter Keurs.
“Everyone has been fabulous—patients and staff. Staff have all been keen on sharing their roles with me,” said van Soeren. “Dr. Eva and the nurses challenge me and I’ve had exposure to a huge variety of medical situations,” she adds.
This 24 year old medical student knew at just eight years of age, she wanted to be a doctor. Her main areas of interest are women’s health, maternity, rural and aboriginal health.
van Soeren will finish her Rural Health rotation in Princeton at the end of August.
While here, she has been provided billet housing by Rosemary Doughty, “a very nice lady,” said van Soeren. The arrangement and contact were set up by Solana Allison, president of Save our Similkameen. “It’s a perfect situation,” she said.
van Soeren says she is enjoying her experience and appreciates everyone who has been a part of her time in Princeton.