Alumna spotlight: Sciences infimières graduate embarks on her next adventure - medical school
(July 28, 2023) - Since obtaining her baccalauréat es sciences infirmières (2021), Laurentian University alumna, Alexie Lanteigne, has kept herself busy. She now holds a Master’s degree in Applied Gerontology (Brock University), has shared her knowledge with students by teaching part-time at both Laurentian (sciences infirmières) and Collège Boréal (présciences de la santé), and has been working with a family physician in her hometown of Sturgeon Falls as a registered nurse (RN). She’s also spent time volunteering at NOSM University in support of CampMed, an annual summer camp that provides high school students with a unique opportunity to be inspired to consider a future as a healthcare professional.
“I’m really passionate about nursing but my next adventure will find me starting as a medical student at NOSM University this fall,” shared Lanteigne. “It’s always been my hope to give back to my community, and my end goal is to work in small rural communities of Northern Ontario - to help fill in gaps that exist in the medical field in the North.”
Lanteigne’s passion in healthcare started in high school when attending École Secondaire Catholique Franco-Cité. Having had the opportunity to visit Laurentian’s campus during an Open House event, she described being in awe of the nursing laboratories and facilities. “My first impression of LU’s sciences infirmières labs was amazing. To meet future professors, see the equipment that LU has invested in and speak with fellow students interested in nursing, for me, that was really exciting.”
According to Lanteigne, the practical components of LU’s sciences infirmières program were invaluable. “The concept of learning in class, practicing in the lab and going right into clinical settings made a positive difference for me. And faculty members were so supportive, as were my peers.”
In her undergrad, Lanteigne participated in the sciences infirmières peer mentorship program. “When I was in first and second year, I was paired with an upper year student to help guide me. Being able to provide the same type of mentorship to an incoming student in my upper years was very rewarding.”
Lanteigne was also involved in the sciences infirmières student council which she described as “a great opportunity to get more involved in the student community.” She enjoyed supporting her peers through advocacy and the planning of fun activities. Additionally, Lanteigne acted as student ambassador for the Consortium national de formation en santé (CNFS), an experience of which she was also fond. “I loved being an ambassador for my program. I especially liked opportunities to engage with high school students. Sharing what LU’s sciences infirmières program was all about - that was really special.”
A francophone, for Lanteigne, “it was important for me to be able to study in French at Laurentian. It’s my first language and I have a true passion for the francophone population…. As a student it was nice to be taught our nursing theory in french but also have opportunities for clinicals in English. I graduated with a certificate of bilingualism which I think is a really great thing. Especially in the workplace, I feel as though my communication skills in both English and French have been mastered. Being able to communicate with patients in both languages is super helpful.”
In her fourth year, Lanteigne was recognized for her dedicating as a francophone student in the field of nursing. “I won le prix de GIIFO on behalf of le Groupe des infirmières et infirmiers francophones de l’Ontario. This prize was awarded to a deserving student who demonstrates excellence in their theoretical and clinical training in the study of nursing, while promoting the french language.
Much success has found Alexie thanks to her dedication and commitment to her passions. The LU community looks forward to following Alexie’s success in her future endeavors.
