Sydney, NS

Like anywhere in Canada, finding accommodation can be tricky. Thankfully, the community was very welcoming and eager to help. Hospital staff as well as upper year residents helped me to find a place to live.

I was drawn to Sydney because it offers the best of both worlds - a program large enough to provide exposure to a wide range of specialties, yet small enough that I’m often the only resident, which allows for more hands-on experience and direct mentorship. On a personal level, the natural beauty of Cape Breton, especially the views along the Cabot Trail, makes it an incredible place to live and train.

My favourite thing about the Sydney site is the people. I really value both the welcoming community in Cape Breton and the supportive group of co-residents I get to work alongside.

It felt like the right fit because I was looking for a program that offered strong clinical exposure while still being small enough to provide a close-knit learning environment. From the start, I felt welcomed by both the faculty and the community, and I could see myself thriving here both professionally and personally.

The relationship with preceptors and program leadership is very supportive. Everyone I work with is friendly and welcoming, and there is a strong emphasis on teaching, often in a one-on-one setting. Because we are not a service-based program, the focus is truly on learning and growth as a resident.

Yes, I play a very active role in patient care. Often I am the only resident, which has given me the chance to take on significant responsibility, gain valuable learning experiences, and develop strong critical thinking skills that I know will benefit me as a staff physician.

A typical day or week can vary depending on the specialty, as we are block-based. I really like this structure because it allows me to focus and hone my skills in a particular area. For those of us in the iFMEM program, every week includes a day back in either family medicine or emergency medicine, which keeps us connected to both core areas of training.

The work-life balance is excellent. Because we are not a service-based program, our focus is truly on learning. We also have a strong sense of community outside of work. Our running club meets weekly and socializes afterward, and residents organize several yearly trips, including a cross-country ski trip to a cabin in rural Cape Breton and a downhill ski trip to Newfoundland.

Resident wellness is supported both formally and informally. Formally, the program ensures protected time for learning and avoids service-based demands, which helps prevent burnout. Informally, there is a strong sense of community among residents and faculty, with social activities

The patient population in Cape Breton is diverse, including people from both urban and rural communities, many with low socioeconomic status, as well as newcomers to Canada. This mix provides residents with a broad and meaningful range of experiences.

Yes, there are opportunities to work in rural areas. Residents complete required blocks outside of Sydney, which provides exposure to a variety of practice settings and the chance to develop skills in delivering care where resources may be limited.

Take full advantage of the hands-on learning opportunities and the close-knit environment. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or take initiative. The faculty and community are incredibly supportive, and the experiences you gain here will be invaluable for your future practice.