Erin graduated from the Dietetic Practicum Program’s inaugural class (formerly NODIP) in 2008, completing her training based out of Sault Ste. Marie. Originally from Thunder Bay, she earned her B.A.Sc. in Applied Human Nutrition from the University of Guelph in 2007. Erin joined the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit immediately after completing her dietetic practical training. Her portfolio focuses on advocacy work related to food insecurity and monitoring food affordability, as well as supporting a wide range of community food initiatives related to sustainable food systems and food environments. In 2024, Erin completed her Master of Public Health: Nutrition and Dietetics – Advanced Standing Program at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto. Erin graduated from the Dietetic Practicum Program’s inaugural class (formerly NODIP) in 2008, completing her training based out of Sault Ste. Marie. Originally from Thunder Bay, she earned her B.A.Sc. in Applied Human Nutrition from the University of Guelph in 2007. Erin joined the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit immediately after completing her dietetic practical training. Her portfolio focuses on advocacy work related to food insecurity and monitoring food affordability, as well as supporting a wide range of community food initiatives related to sustainable food systems and food environments. In 2024, Erin completed her Master of Public Health: Nutrition and Dietetics – Advanced Standing Program at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto.
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Sarah Arulchelvam (McMaster University, PT)
I completed my second physical therapy placement in Thunder Bay. I had a phenomenal experience starting from the drive up north, to engaging in my clinical placement. Although it was a slower pace of life, with most places closing by 7pm, the days were long in the summer, as the sun set only at 10pm! Having long summer days allowed me to take in the spectacular scenery and majestic wildlife. Specifically, I was fortunate to climb to the top of the Sleeping Giant and embrace the panoramic view, as well as visit Kakabeka falls, which I may argue, is much more breathtaking than Niagara Falls! Additionally, I was able to cross the border to Grand Marais, Minnesota to visit the small seaside town known for its art and culture.
Additionally, I gained an appreciation of the challenges the Indigenous community face, as well as learnt much about their culture and practices by attending Pow Wows and cookouts (I ate moose for the first time at the cookout and it was great!), as well as having open discussions with my clinical instructor and my fellow NOSM peers.
Thunder Bay is such a diverse community, and there is a place for anyone to feel like they belong!
Siyani Kugathasan (McMaster University, PT)
Siyani completed a physiotherapy placement in Thunder Bay through McMaster University. During the placement, she was able to participate in traditional Indigenous events and deepen her interest in Indigenous health.
Siyani Kugathasan
I completed my rehab placement with the Neurology Outpatient program at St. Joseph’s Care Group in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Highlights from my NOSM University experience include the support from the teaching team, the excitement from the NOSM U team and the beauty of Northern Ontario.
My placement was so much more than just a typical placement. I walked in excited to learn more about Indigenous health in Canada and left with so many immersive experiences that further sparked my passion. Every person I came across jumped to share cool attractions that were must-visits and every weekend my roommate and I would head out on new adventures.
Some memorable moments include attending my first Pow Wow on Mount McKay at Fort William First Nation for Indigenous Peoples’ Day and sharing a meal with the excited children dressed in beautiful colours. I enjoyed the culture and work experience I gained in the small city and believe that both have made me a better health-care professional.
