Inspiring Young Alumni: Catching up with Prem Nichani ’13
Prem Nichani began building his leadership skills in the halls of St. Michael’s College School (SMCS) and continues fostering them today in numerous roles at the University of Toronto (U of T) and as a resident physician.
Nichani is a fourth-year resident specializing in ophthalmology, where he has begun to either assist with or independently perform cataract surgeries.
Reflecting on his work, he describes it as “profoundly humbling—the experience of meeting a patient for only ten minutes before they entrust me with their vision” leaves a lasting impact on his approach to patient care.
In June 2020, at the height of the pandemic, Nichani married his wife, Gunjan. Their family grew in November 2024 with the arrival of their daughter, Saanvi, joining their four-year-old pup, Mowgli.
Read on to learn more about this inspiring young alumnus.
Update on professional life:
Professionally, I am a fourth-year ophthalmology resident in the Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine at the University of Toronto (U of T). My academic journey includes a doctor of medicine (MD) degree from the University of Toronto, a master of science in health policy, management and evaluation, also from U of T, and an honours bachelor of science in health sciences from Wilfrid Laurier University. Combining this academic background with my passion for clinical research and ophthalmology, I aspire to become a skilled clinician-researcher. My ultimate goal is to contribute to health care policy reform to enhance patient experience and improve access to quality eye care.
Beyond medicine, I find joy in long hikes with my family, DJing under the alias DJ Mocha Love with Six Side Entertainment, music production, website design, integrating artificial intelligence to streamline daily routines, and reading legal thrillers.
How would you describe your time at the school?
Reflecting on my time at SMCS, I can confidently say that those six years were the most formative period of my life. Having experienced bullying in grade school, my parents sought a fresh start for me at SMCS. From the outset, it was evident that this decision was life-changing. I credit the camaraderie and brotherhood I found at St. Mike’s as unique, creating lasting bonds that transcend time and distance. Regardless of how many years have passed, reconnecting with a fellow SMCS alumnus feels as though no time has elapsed.
A pivotal moment occurred during my Grade 7 parent-teacher interview. My science teacher, Mr. Tessaro, candidly expressed to my mother that her investment in SMCS might be wasted if I continued to neglect my studies. Witnessing my mother’s disappointment was a turning point. Determined not to let her down, I shifted my focus, and my grades began to soar. This experience altered my life’s trajectory. The care and dedication shown by every teacher at SMCS made me feel seen, valued, and capable of achieving greatness.
I immersed myself in student leadership at SMCS. Elected as the Grade 8 class representative, this initial opportunity paved the way for future leadership roles. I went on to serve as president and chair of the Faculty of Science Students’ Association during my undergraduate studies, co-president of the 2T1 class in medical school, and now, as site chair of the U of T Chapter in the Professional Association of Residents of Ontario. These leadership experiences all stem from the foundation laid at SMCS.
SMCS empowered me to believe in my abilities and instilled in me the understanding that hard work, combined with kindness, could open any door. The school also emphasized the importance of respect for others and myself, while teaching the value of discipline.
How have you been involved with SMCS since graduating?
Although my demanding residency schedule has limited my physical return to SMCS, I hope to participate in Career Day in the near future. I fondly recall the impact of hearing from accomplished alumni like Nick Di Donato ’76, Dr. John Cardella ’93, and Michael Sgro during my Grade 11 year. Their willingness to share their journeys inspired me, and I hope to offer the same encouragement to current students.
How did SMCS prepare you for and propel you into life?
SMCS equipped me with leadership skills and a sense of discipline that have been invaluable throughout my academic journey and personal growth. More than anything, my time at St. Mike’s helped me unlock my potential. It taught me to strive for excellence in everything I do and showed me that success is built on both hard work and character.
The school emphasized the importance of being a gentleman—treating others with respect and recognizing that the smallest gestures can have the greatest impact. These values have shaped how I carry myself as a physician, a leader, and a person. The discipline I developed at SMCS has driven me to consistently put my best foot forward, whether in my studies, my work, or my relationships. Most importantly, the school instilled in me the belief that success is not just about personal achievement but also about lifting others up along the way.
How do you live out the Basilian motto of Teach me Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge?
The Basilian motto of “Teach me Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge” remains deeply embedded in my daily life. Goodness, to me, is reflected in treating every person with kindness. Discipline was instilled through moments like Mr. Charter’s unique classroom management techniques and Mr. Tessaro’s comment to my mother in front of me, to motivate me to work harder. Knowledge extends beyond academics—it encompasses the ability to apply lessons learned from every facet of life.
What are some of your plans for the future?
Apart from the excitement with my wife and I watching my now 10-month-old daughter grow and develop each day, I am in my final year of residency. Hoping I am successful at the Royal College board examinations next spring, I intend to set up practice somewhere in the GTA as a comprehensive ophthalmologist. I hope to meaningfully contribute to the community I have the privilege of serving—by providing eye care that is clinical rigorous and anchored in the trust my patients place in me.
How are you being the best for the world through your work and education?
My passion for improving patient care continues to drive me. Inspired by memories of working alongside my mother in her optical store as a child, I recall an elderly woman expressing gratitude to my mom for simply suggesting cataract surgery, offering the woman the ability to regain her independence, drive her car, and see her grandchildren again. That moment crystallized my desire to pursue ophthalmology. Today, as a surgeon, I am grateful to make a similar difference in my patients’ lives.
I am also exploring the integration of artificial intelligence into ophthalmology, aiming to optimize clinic efficiency and enhance patient care. With the growing demand for ophthalmologists, I envision AI tools alleviating administrative burdens, granting physicians more time to focus on patients.
Do you have any advice for current students?
For current SMCS students, I offer two pieces of advice:
- Be kind—kindness carries people further than they often realize.
- Be yourself—the world, especially social media, makes us act tougher or portray ourselves differently from who we might actually be. This pressure to conform can be overwhelming and tiring, but authenticity fosters lasting happiness and success.
Ultimately, I urge students to stay true to their values and pursue paths aligned with their moral compass. By doing what is right, success and fulfillment will naturally follow.
We are excited to feature Prem Nichani as a member of our inspiring young alumni. More inspiring young alumni can be found on the featured wall across from the main office.
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