Mathieu Chin | Superstar student on the pathway to medicine

Mathieu Chin is a busy man. “From the first day on campus, there have been a million opportunities,” he says. As a second-year kinesiology student and recipient of the Pathways to Medicine Scholarship, Mathieu has thrown himself into campus life. Growing up in Calgary, Mathieu considered the University of Calgary and Cumming School of Medicine (CSM) an ideal choice. “The campus is large enough that we are given many opportunities, but small enough that we can still make our voices heard.”  

Mathieu’s interest in pursuing a career in medicine originates from his love for sports. “As a hockey player, I’ve suffered some injuries. The complexity of the human body and how it can miraculously heal itself originally sparked my interest and has since propelled me towards my current work.” This summer, Mathieu worked in the Sports Injury Prevention Research Centre, evaluating the effects of body checking policies in youth ice hockey players. “I hope this research has a national impact on reducing the risk of injury and concussions in youths. The research will inform sports organizations such as Hockey Calgary, Hockey Alberta, and Hockey Canada about the risks that come with body checking in youths.” Mathieu presented his research last month at the Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI) Summer Student Research Day and won first prize for best podium presentation.

As a recipient of the Pathway to Medicine Scholarship, Mathieu has already been accepted into the MD program at the CSM upon completion of his undergraduate degree. “I have been humbly supported since my first day at the University of Calgary,” says Mathieu. “This scholarship has covered the cost of my undergraduate tuition, as well as helped me to gain amazing mentors and explore various opportunities in the field of medicine.” Two options Mathieu is considering pursuing as a doctor are orthopaedics or neurology. “My passion for sports has led to my interest in Orthopedic Biomechanics and the neurological disease of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). But I still have many years ahead of me!”

In addition to his studies and research, Mathieu is also a devoted volunteer in the UCalgary community. “I’m the VP Finance for the UCalgary Right to Play Club, the VP Public Relations for the Kinesiology Student Society, and the Education Coordinator at the Thrive Center,” he says. “In the free time that I do have, I try to give back to the community!”

Mathieu credits his parents for his achievements. “They taught me the importance of working hard,” he says. “I could never thank them enough for what they have done for me.”

Tidbits from Mathieu:

Stampeders vs. Roughriders: “Go Saskatchewan Roughriders! I was born in Saskatoon.”

His favourite movie: “Pursuit of Happyness. It has a great message and is an inspirational story.”

His most treasured possession: “Memories! From playing ice hockey since I was a child to spending time with my friends and family, these are the sentimental things that I will always cherish!”

His hidden talents: “I wouldn’t call it a talent, but I do enjoy video editing and photography!”

Where he would like to see the CSM in 50 years: “From ground-breaking research to creating the next generation of physicians, the Cumming School of Medicine has proven to be a world-class faculty, and having done so in just 50 years is truly an accomplishment. I believe that the CSM will continue to be at the forefront of research and cutting-edge education as technology continues to advance and new discoveries are made!”