Asian Star-Dr Virinder Singh

Native village/Country, parent’s background
Pathankot, Punjab, India. Father was an Architect and mother was a home maker
Your early education
I completed MBBS from Government Medical College, Amritsar (Punjab). Subsequently, I obtained M.S. (General Surgery)
When & why you came to Canada?
2008. I immigrated in Federal Nominee Program
Your career advancement initiatives and present occupation
I reached in September, 2008 and cleared the first paper of evaluation exam in couple of months. On March 2009, University of Alberta recruited me as a Team Leader, MDSI and provided me the team of Dietician, Lab Technician and Retinal Photographer. In 2010, Sturgeon Hospital, St Albert placed me as Clinical Assistant. Royal Alexendra Hospital employed me in 2011.Meanwhile, I completed other evaluation exams.  Then, from 2012 to 2014, I completed Residency from University of Alberta. At present, I am a practising Family Physician
Your regret in life
I regret the social life which I enjoyed back home.
Pick any one of your the best achievements
In spite of the fact that I entered Canada in late forties, I cleared Evaluation Exams in one go. None of the paper was re attempted. Establishing myself in my own field and that too in competition with young and locally qualified doctors, really make me proud. However, I will be the last person to brag
Were you ever discriminated?
Not really
What you miss in Canada?
The flavor and taste of an authentic Punjabi food.Also, the delicious Punjabi Mangoes, my great addiction in summers
Are you happy in Canada?
I am happy indeed
Why?
Canada is the World’s # 2 livable country and provide an unmatched quality of life. Law of land is enforced fully enabling every resident to lead safe and secured life style
Any comments on Canada’s weather
No doubt winters are harsh. However, one gets conditioned with continuous stay. Summers are really gorgeous and provide an abundant opportunities to explore the pristine Canadian nature
Any comments on Canada’s culture
Cultures have evolved world over and the multicultural conduit of Canada turn in good as well as bad situations. It’s one’s own preference to what kind of life he/she wants to lead. I as Doctor will always recommend healthy life style and non-indulgence in any kind of addiction
What brought you success in Canada?
Blessings of Almighty and hard work. My never give up attitude enabled me to remain focussed on my goal. Of course, my significant half, Dr Anupma Gill was always with me in all circumstances
Are you willing to help new immigrants?
Definitely
How?
I am always a great guide and supporter to our folks who want to pursue the medical profession. I have trained very many physicians and am still helping lots. Even some of the would be physicians stay with me while completing their evaluation course
Your message for Canadians of South Asian origin
If haven is on earth, it’s only in Canada. I agree, it takes a while to settle down and everybody settles eventually. We should vouch for our conduct and try to lead as role models so that the mainstream should always rate us well and embrace us. Always give back to society whatever way you can. Be engaged in communities and respect multiculturalism