Even before starting medical school, Justin Shapiro had an interest in health services research and innovation. While preparing for his medical school interview at the University of Toronto, Shapiro was keen to add the System Leadership and Innovation (SLI) degree to complement his undergraduate medical studies.
“I was looking for opportunities to supplement my medical school curriculum and develop my leadership experience and network, and SLI was a natural fit,” says Shapiro.
Shapiro appreciated the flexibility within the program to tailor course content to each student’s professional and academic interests. It allowed Shapiro to explore new fields and areas of study, including health economics, management, and consulting.
This flexibility and the opportunity to foster new connections within the program provided invaluable networking opportunities with the broader IHPME community.
“The faculty are all accomplished in their fields, passionate about teaching, and eager to mentor students,” says Shapiro. “I have learned so much both inside and outside the classroom.”
Outside of the classroom, Shapiro actively participated in opportunities that helped further develop his professional skills. Shapiro served as class president and was a member of the admissions and curriculum innovation committees. He was also actively engaged in research opportunities, allowing Shapiro to build his professional and academic portfolio throughout his studies.
“Moreover, the IHPME network equipped me with excellent mentors as I embarked on my journey through clerkship,” says Shapiro. “ While the third year of medical school is the foundation of our clinical training, the SLI program provided me with a deeper understanding of my career beyond clinical practice.”
Shapiro is currently focused on finishing his third year of medical school and beginning the residency process.
For those interested in SLI, Shapiro shares,
“Enrolling in the SLI program was undoubtedly the best decision I made in my medical training.”
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