Welcome Cathy Torchia to the Program Administrators Steering Committee
Each year, the Program Administrators Steering Committee (PASC) welcomes new members. We recently chatted with new member, Cathy Torchia, Senior Administrator and Student Affairs Coordinator, Radiology Residency Program, McGill University, as she is our local Montreal representative, about her favourite aspects of the conference.
Q: When did you first attend the PA Conference and what do you enjoy about it?
A: I attended the first PA Conference in 2005 and attended every one since then except the year that we at McGill were on strike in 2011. One of the best features of the program is the networking. To meet my colleagues across Canada is great as we get to exchange ideas and help each other. We often e-mail when we need help or are organizing something new in our program as we all share similar challenges. The learning experience is invaluable, too. The workshops organized by our peers provide amazing tools for us to take home.
Q: What sparked your interest in becoming a member of the steering committee?
A: I am on the PA National Advisory Committee, and I assumed I was asked to be host representative for this reason. To be honest, I have thought about joining the Steering Committee over the years, so I am grateful for this opportunity now. The networking alone is so important as it shows us that we are not alone.
Q: Why should other PAs attend this year’s conference?
A: The PA conference is important for our professional development. It allows us to share our challenges and ideas with colleagues across the country.
Cathy’s Picks
As our local representative based in Montreal, we asked Cathy to recommend some coffee shops, restaurants, and walking tours in case conference participants want to take advantage of all that Montreal has to offer. Here are Cathy’s Picks:
| Old Port
Coffee shops |
Restaurants | Restaurants in surrounding areas | Walking Tours |
| Olive et Gourmando | Gibbys | Kazu | https://www.freemontrealtours.com/free-old-montreal-tour/ |
| Crew Collective and Café | Jardin Nelson | Helena | https://freetoursbyfoot.com/free-walking-tours-montreal/ |
| Tommy Cafe | Caffe Un Po’ Di Piu | L’Express | https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attractions-g155032-Activities-c42-t183-Montreal_Quebec.html |
| Dany | La Restaurant Bonaparte | Leméac | |
| Le Petit Dep | Da Emma |
