Gold Medal Graduate Inspired to Serve Others

SASKATOON — A childhood diagnosis transformed Dr. Teagan Holt’s (MD) life. Inspired to care for others, Holt has now graduated from the University of Saskatchewan (USask) with a medical degree, graduating at the top of her class.

“When I was eleven, I was diagnosed with hypermobility syndrome. A pediatric rheumatologist diagnosed me and encouraged me to exercise as a form of medicine. I was told that this should not limit me,” she says.

“The wonderful care I received was empowering and ever since then I have wanted to do that for someone else and give back.”

A member of the graduating class of 2024, Holt is the recipient of the prestigious Lindsay Gold Medal, awarded to the College of Medicine graduate with the most outstanding academic achievement during four years of training.

She says a holistic approach to student life has been the key to her success.

“Truthfully, I think it’s about having a balanced, full life. We are proud of our education, but having an activity outside of medicine and being surrounded by people from all walks of life is important to take a break and recharge,” she says.

“Medicine is not an easy program. In those moments when you feel exhausted, it’s nice to go back to your “why” to help reframe things and get you through the tough times.

Growing up in Saskatoon, Holt played a variety of sports and performed in musical theatre. In university, she excelled in her studies, first completing a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree and then returning to pursue a medical degree that same year.

“Everything about the human body is so interesting, and there are a wide range of incredible career opportunities,” Holt says of his decision to pursue medical school. “I really enjoy the clinical aspects and the immense amount of learning it provides.”

When asked what his favorite part of college was, Holt knew right away.

“When we started our internship in the third year. Having the opportunity to interact a little bit more with patients and show them that we can help them and make a difference in their lives. It made it a lot more real and the change in our learning was exciting,” she says.

In addition to her studies, Holt was an active member of the campus. She participated in several extracurricular activities, including the student group Advocates Bringing Light to and Education on Disabilities, the Government and Advocacy Affairs Committee, and the Exercise is Medicine group.

Holt’s student career at USask is marked by numerous academic achievements. At the College of Medicine, her honours include the Reuben Brant Award and the Sylvia Turner Scholarship in Medicine, both awarded for outstanding academic achievement. During her undergraduate studies at the College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, she received the Saskatchewan College of Pharmacy Professionals Gold Medal and the Robert Martin Award for the most distinguished pharmacy graduate.

Holt was heavily involved in research while studying for her two degrees. She has presented at an international conference and is also credited in two journal publications with a third manuscript in progress. Her work also included the development and evaluation of a pediatric chronic pain pathway document. This project allowed him to combine two of his clinical interests, chronic pain and pediatrics.

Holt’s research and work influenced his decision to pursue residency training in physical medicine and rehabilitation in Saskatoon.

“I look forward to the opportunity to give back and serve the people of Saskatchewan who have supported me. I want to make a positive difference in the lives of everyone in the community,” she says.

As the first phase of his medical training comes to a close, Holt says his best advice to new students is “to be curious.”

“There is always something to learn. If you approach your studies and internships with curiosity, you will emerge with a broader perspective and knowledge,” she says. “It will take you far. »