At IHPME, I had the opportunity to learn alongside some of the best and brightest minds in health professions education research, both students and faculty.
During her time as a Research Fellow at the Wilson Centre, Victoria Boyd discovered a passion for research that set her firmly on the path to a PhD. While initially unsure which program to pursue, she was quickly drawn to IHPME in 2018 following the launch of the Health Professions Education Research (HPER) program. It was the perfect fit.
“The HPER program opened for applications just as I began my search, and it immediately became my top choice,” says Boyd.
Her enthusiasm grew when she realized that many of the HPER program’s faculty members were distinguished leaders she had previously collaborated with as a Research Associate at U of T.
“It was such an honour to be part of the first cohort of the program!”
Boyd’s experience in the program was defined by a strong sense of community. The small cohort size fostered meaningful connections with classmates and professors, for which Boyd remains grateful—especially for the lasting collaborations that grew from those relationships.
“At IHPME, I had the opportunity to learn alongside some of the best and brightest minds in health professions education research, both students and faculty,” says Boyd. “What stood out to me was not only the quality of thinking, but also the humility and curiosity that everyone brought to the learning process. That spirit of learning has shaped how I approach my work and continues to prepare me for new professional opportunities.”
She also highlights the comprehensive learning experience of the program, emphasizing the depth and breadth of knowledge she gained through its course-intensive curriculum, which enabled her to explore various research areas and engage deeply with theory and methodology.
Boyd graduated from the program in 2023 before taking up a position as a Postdoctoral Fellow at CanChild Centre for Childhood-Onset Disability Research at McMaster.
Since then, she has started a new role as a Scientific Associate and Education Lead at the Centre for Advancing Collaborative Healthcare and Education (CACHE), where she leads research and design focused on interprofessional education and collaborative practice in healthcare.
Reflecting on her journey, Boyd encourages prospective applicants to embrace the process and maintain an inquisitive mindset.
“I would say… go for it! You don’t have to have it all figured out right now. Find a supervisor whose work inspires you and who will be a strong mentor and champion. Stay curious and open and the rest will come!”
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