Meet Laura Betcherman

Laura Betcherman earned her Bachelor of Science in Physiology at McGill University, as well as her Doctor of Medicine from the University of Toronto. She is currently working as a general pediatrician and pediatric nephrologist in Toronto. In her spare time she likes dancing, travelling or watching any of the Harry Potter movies.

When did your love of STEM begin?

I always knew I was interested in learning more about the human body. This comes from my background as a dancer. I went into physiology at McGill in the hopes of learning more about the human body, and to learn how we function from our cellular connections to our outer kinetics. This opened me to the field of medicine, and later to specialize in pediatrics - a field that melds embryology, pathology and up to date research in complex patients. Next year I will be specializing in nephrology (kidneys). This is a field that is especially intertwined with basic science, math and even physics.

What is the best part about working in the field of STEM?

Constantly learning. They say a career in medicine is life long learning - and truer words were never spoken. The field is ever-evolving and I feel challenged daily. Although I studied physiology in undergrad and went into medical school, I find myself involved in big data research, using math and statistics daily, and needing to understand basic sciences to constantly ask myself "why" and "how" to get a deeper understanding of the pathophysiology present in my patients.

What advice would you give young women interested in a career in STEM?

Go for it. Follow your passion - and know that there is a world of opportunity from a career in STEM! Do not be afraid of science, and know that your interests may evolve with time! It is also a field that allows you to be creative. I come from a performing arts background and use my creativity daily working in pediatrics.