Guelph Grad Q&A: Dr. Naythrah Thevathasan

Bio-Med Leads to Award-Winning Medical Career 

Dr. Naythrah Thevathasan graduated from the University of Guelph’s Bio-Medical Science program in 2015. Born and raised in Guelph, her lifelong connection to the institution made choosing U of G an easy decision. But it was the Human Anatomy Lab that truly made her fall in love with the program. The experience and her time at U of G helped shape her as a person and laid the foundation for a successful medical career.

Dr. Thevathasan is currently a third-year pediatric resident at McMaster University and was recently awarded the prestigious 2024 Reckitt Pediatric Global Resident Scholarship. The award recognizes senior pediatric residents worldwide, and she was one of only 15 recipients, and the only Canadian.

Continue reading to learn more about Dr. Naythrah Thevathasan and how the Bio-Medical Science program helped her realize that there is no problem that a good person, with a good heart and strong knowledge can’t solve. 

Interview with Dr. Naythrah Thevathasan

Tell us about yourself and why you chose to study Bio-Medical Science at the University of Guelph?

I was born and raised in Guelph, Ontario and spent most of my childhood growing up on campus because my dad worked at the University. I have such fond memories of College Royal and Johnston Green in the fall and the ever-changing faces of the begging bear at the art gallery. When I chose to pursue a degree at the University of Guelph, the Bio-Medical Science program was an easy choice for me. I remember as a high school student coming to the Human Anatomy Lab and instantly falling in love with the program. It made me feel like the sky’s was the limit. 

What did you like most about your program? Is there anything in particular about the courses or professors that stands out to you?

It will always come down to the people. I had the best teachers at the University of Guelph who took their time to nurture and mentor me. President Summerlee was one of those people for me and he taught me that there was no problem that a good person, with a good heart and strong knowledge, couldn’t solve. Beyond that, some of the friends that I have made at the University of Guelph have remained some of my closest peers. It’s been beautiful to see how we have grown into young professionals.  

Where are you currently working and what is your role?

I am currently a third-year Pediatric Resident at McMaster University.  

How did your degree and time at the University of Guelph help get you to where you are today? How do the skills and education you gained help with your current work?

The University of Guelph shaped who I am as a person and scholar. The Bio-Medical Science program gave me the foundation to be a critical thinker and to ask tough questions. It has helped me both in my previous career in public health and as a doctor. When you become a Gryphon, you truly embody the saying of “changing lives and improving life”. You start to see how your knowledge can help the world around you. I feel so grateful for my time at the University of Guelph and what it has done to shape me.  

What advice would you give someone considering the Bio-Medical Science program or applying to the University of Guelph?

The best piece of advice I could give is to enjoy the most of your 4 years at Guelph! Work hard but don’t forget to make the most of what the University has to offer. There are so many memories to be made that will last a lifetime.   

Bonus Questions

Where was your favourite place to eat on campus and what was your go-to food order?

The Bullring! Either the turkey pesto sandwich or their breakfast wrap.

In your opinion where is the best place to study on campus?

The 6th floor quiet area cubicles in the library.