My aim when I started my course was to study medicine and specialise in emergency and/or expedition medicine.
The course at CWA has an excellent reputation with many medical schools, which would stand me in good stead when applying. I wanted to have a solid understanding of the science underpinning the degree syllabus, as the course curriculum was influenced by the schools themselves, so I knew I would be fully prepared.
Our course focused on the three core sciences - chemistry, biology and physics, alongside other subjects such as epidemiology and professional behaviours. My favourite subjects were chemistry and biology, largely because our teachers, Rob and Susan, who were incredibly personable, enthusiastic and supportive. Despite the pandemic, they provided a really good balance of practical and theory lessons and went above and beyond to ensure I had the resources I needed to achieve.
We undertook a self-directed research project over the course of the year. I surveyed staff opinions of the COVID-19 screening guidance used by the A&E department I work in. Not only have I become confident in navigating scientific research, but the project gave me an opportunity to liaise with those who work in medical research and ultimately an appreciation for the complexities of conducting research in the healthcare setting.
Despite a lot of online lessons, we still managed to become really close as a group. I really looked forward to classes each day. The year went by so quickly.
I applied to medical school this year and have been offered a place on the graduate-entry medicine course at Cambridge University to start this September. Completion of the course itself meant that I met the academic conditions of my university offer, but further to that, my time at CWA introduced me to a network of pre-medical students and experienced teachers who have offered, and continue to offer, me support and advice as I progress on to medical school.
For the past 4 years (including whilst studying at CWA) I worked as a band 3 Healthcare Support Worker in the Emergency Department at Addenbrookes Hospital. I recently left my substantive role to go travelling around Europe.
I am currently studying on the Graduate-Entry Medicine Course at Cambridge University.
