Food for Thought – Culinary Adventures in Medical School

By Gizelle Francis

Medical school is notorious for its long hours, relentless studying, and the ever-present pressure to perform. Amidst this, finding time for hobbies can seem almost impossible. For me, however, cooking and baking have become more than just hobbies—they are a sanctuary. As a medical student, I discovered that the kitchen offers a creative outlet that balances the intensity of my studies while nurturing a deeper connection to my well-being.

Cooking as an Art and Science

For me, cooking isn’t just about putting food on the table; it’s an art form and a science, much like medicine. There’s a certain satisfaction in transforming raw ingredients into a meal that not only nourishes, but also brings people together. The same meticulousness that I apply to learning anatomy or understanding complex surgical procedures translates into my approach to cooking. Each ingredient has a role, and it’s fascinating how a little adjustment in seasoning or technique can change an entire dish—just like how small adjustments in a treatment plan can dramatically improve patient outcomes. Baking, on the other hand, satisfies my need for precision. It’s a discipline that leaves little room for error—measurements need to be exact, temperatures controlled, and timing impeccable. It’s very much like the procedural aspects of surgery. When you’re baking, there’s a rhythm to the process and once the ingredients are in the oven, you wait, trusting that you’ve done everything right.

The Therapeutic Side of Cooking

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned in medical school is the importance of balance. The constant demands can easily consume you, leaving little room for personal time or relaxation. For me, cooking and baking are therapeutic. After a long day in the hospital or studying, heading to the kitchen to prepare a homemade meal or bake a dessert allows me to reset. The aroma of fresh ingredients and the satisfaction of creating something from scratch helps me unwind. Even during the busiest rotations, I’ve found ways to integrate my culinary passion into my life. Whether it’s meal prepping for the week ahead or spending an afternoon experimenting with new recipes, cooking gives me a sense of control.

Sharing the Joy

Food has always played an important role in my family and culture and that love has followed me into medical school. I often find myself bringing family or friends together through my cooking. There’s something profoundly rewarding about feeding others, especially when it sparks conversations and connections. In many ways, sharing food mirrors the reasons I went into medicine: to bring comfort and care to others.

Culinary Lessons in Medicine

Ultimately, the lessons I’ve learned from cooking and baking have enriched my journey through medical school. They’ve taught me patience, attention to detail, and the importance of balancing creativity with precision—qualities that are essential for becoming a surgeon. These culinary adventures have provided me with a much-needed outlet and a reminder that even in the most demanding career paths, there’s always room for passion and creativity. So, whether I’m practicing my skills in the operating room or crafting the perfect tiramisu, I’ve learned that there’s a place for art and science in everything we do. Food, much like medicine, is a way to heal and connect— that’s something I’ll carry with me throughout my medical career.

About the Author: Gizelle Francis BSc

Gizelle is a fourth year medical student at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, CA. She has a passion for otolaryngology and the artistic side of surgery. Outside of medicine, Gizelle enjoys cooking and baking, finding solace and creativity in the kitchen amidst the demands of medical school. Growing up in a family where food played a significant role in culture and connection, Gizelle continues to carry that tradition, experimenting with traditional Lebanese recipes as well as new ones including fresh pasta. Beyond cooking, she is also passionate about crafting, knitting, and spending time with family.

@gizellefrancis, @foodforthought.hfx