Heather Rossong, Rotman MBA Class of 2027
Age: 29
Hometown: Winnipeg, MB
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Manitoba – Bachelor of Science (BSc), Doctor of Medicine (MD)
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Neurosurgical resident, healthcare/medicine, University of Calgary, 3 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
As a neurosurgeon in training, I’ve witnessed firsthand how patient outcomes are shaped not only by clinical expertise but also by leadership, strategy, innovation and health-system decision-making. I decided to pursue business school to deepen my ability to influence these broader systemic facets. Now is the ideal time because I am in the research/academic phase of my residency, which gives me the unique flexibility to dedicate myself fully to an MBA before returning to full-time clinical service. This timing allows me to integrate management and leadership training with clinical work early, so I can bring these skills into healthcare leadership throughout my career.
Why did you choose Toronto Rotman? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I knew I wanted to stay in Canada because I see my career here long term. Rotman is the top business school in the country, with the strongest reputation and network, so it was the clear academic choice. Beyond that, I wanted the chance to experience life in a vibrant big city like Toronto. Coming from Winnipeg and then Calgary, it feels like a natural progression toward larger and more dynamic centres. I’m excited to finally be in Canada’s hub for business, entertainment, food, and culture.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
My differentiator is the ability to bridge the two worlds of medicine and business. I hope to contribute by applying lessons I’ve learned in the hospital to classroom discussions, while also learning from the various experiences of classmates across different industries.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I have an 11-year-old Maltese named Tiffany and she’s been my sidekick throughout medical school, residency, and now business school.
Post-MBA career interests:
After completing my MBA, my immediate focus will be finishing my residency (2 more years to go!), followed by a subspecialty fellowship and then securing an attending neurosurgical position. Over the course of my career, I hope to merge my business education with my clinical expertise by conducting research at the intersection of surgery, leadership, and health systems, while also pursuing leadership roles within hospitals, academic institutions, and professional organizations. My long-term goal is to help shape the future of neurosurgery and Canadian healthcare by bringing both a clinical and business lens to the way we deliver care, adopt innovation, and lead teams.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Embrace my differences! Coming from a non-traditional background, I initially worried about not fitting the “typical business school profile.” But leaning into what makes me different as well as highlighting what I still have to learn and what I have to offer made my application stronger and more authentic.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Now that I’m part of the Rotman community, I’ve realized how approachable, supportive, and willing to mentor everyone is. Looking back, I wish I had leaned on that network more during the application process instead of trying to work through everything on my own.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
If I could have skipped one part, it would definitely have been the GMAT. I had to relearn a great deal of quantitative material. Preparing while working 80–100 hours/week in residency made it especially challenging. What got me through it was staying disciplined and organized, blocking time off in my busy calendar, sticking to a study schedule, and keeping the end goal in mind. I also leaned hard on my incredible support system; without them I couldn’t do any of this!
What is your initial impression of the Toronto Rotman students/culture/community?
My initial impression is how genuinely nice and welcoming everyone is. I’ve already started forming friendships with classmates from very different backgrounds. It’s exciting to be part of such a diverse and open community where everyone wants to connect and support each other.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
The Healthcare Management Association (HMA) and the Women in Management Association (WIMA). HMA feels like a natural fit given my background in medicine and my interest in healthcare leadership. It’s a great way to connect with others who are passionate about shaping the future of healthcare. WIMA offers a supportive community and platform to meet and learn from inspiring female leaders!
What is one thing you have learned about Toronto Rotman that has surprised you?
Truly how much I enjoy the walk to campus every morning! With Rotman being right downtown, it’s so accessible, and I love joining the flow of people heading to work and school. It makes me feel connected to the city and part of the energy of Toronto.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited about meeting new people. Through formal networking, in day-to-day class interactions and through social events, I’m looking forward to meeting diverse people and building friendships that I know will last well beyond our two years.
