Laurentian University Alumni thriving at NOSM University

November 6, 2025 – A growing number of Laurentian University graduates are pursuing medical studies at NOSM University, reinforcing Laurentian University’s role as a key contributor to Northern Ontario’s healthcare workforce.

Over the past several admission cycles, dozens of Laurentian alumni have begun their medical journeys at NOSM University. This trend highlights the strength of Laurentian’s programs in the sciences and health, and the shared commitment of both institutions to addressing the healthcare needs of the North.

“This is a remarkable testament to the quality of education, faculty support, and mentorship students receive throughout their time at Laurentian University.” said Dr. Malcolm Campbell, Vice-President Academic and Provost. “We are proud to create an environment that has  proven to be an exceptional foundation for physicians, where our students are truly able to shine bright.”

Dr. Jeffrey Gagnon, Associate Professor in the School of Natural Sciences at Laurentian, in collaboration with NOSM University’s Office of Admissions and Learner Recruitment, identified the strong connection between the two institutions. Dr. Gagnon reached out to recent NOSM University learners with Laurentian roots to share their stories.

Among the many inspiring responses were reflections from alumni who credit Laurentian’s supportive environment, hands-on learning, and Northern perspective for their success in medicine.

From Espanola, Ontario, Christen Ramsay (Sciences Infirmières, 2025) shared, “I’m incredibly grateful for how well Laurentian prepared me for medical school. My program was both supportive and encouraging, and I consistently felt backed by fellow students, faculty, and staff alike. I will always jump on any opportunity to give back to the community that helped me on my journey not only through undergrad but being from Espanola, our high school often attended career days etc. which played a big role in my path to Laurentian and then to medicine at NOSM University.”

From Hornepayne, Ontario, Alanna Pullen (Biology, 2022) added, “Laurentian’s diverse course offerings gave me the flexibility to tailor my degree and build a strong foundation for my pre-clerkship years at NOSM University. Most importantly, my time there helped me develop the confidence, adaptability, and critical thinking skills that I still rely on daily in medicine. Above all, I felt fortunate to pursue my studies in the North and to learn within a university community that embraces a Northern lens just as NOSM University does.”

Many of the NOSM University learners with Laurentian backgrounds come from programs such as Biomedical Biology, Nursing, and Kinesiology—fields that emphasize both scientific rigor and community engagement.

The connection between Laurentian and NOSM University underscores a shared mission: to educate healthcare professionals who understand and serve the unique needs of Northern Ontario communities.

“Seeing so many of our graduates continue their studies at NOSM University is something to celebrate,” said Dr. Gagnon. “As a faculty member, it’s the ultimate success to see your former students realize their dreams and achieve success that they might not have thought possible when they stepped onto campus for the first time.” We hope sharing these stories of success will inspire and empower future students to chart a path to NOSM University with Laurentian roots. 

Laurentian students and community members are welcome to learn more about NOSM University’s admission requirements at their Open House on Friday, November 21 from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m.