Case Study

University was always the natural progression from sixth form for me because I wanted to study medicine and get the full ‘university experience’. I chose the University of Sunderland because I liked the idea of a spiral curriculum and the Problem-Based Learning course structure that the medical school offered. The University is quite local to me, being close enough to go home and see my family regularly whilst maintaining that all-important independence. It wasn’t until I came for my interview, where the staff made me feel so welcome and comfortable that I fully decided that the University of Sunderland was for me.

Studying medicine is so rewarding and getting the chance to meet new people is fantastic. My favourite part of the course so far has been the clinical skills sessions where we practice skills such as taking manual blood pressures and filling out NEWS charts. We are able to put some of what we have learnt into practice which is so fun.

My university experience has been a little different from other years; learning medicine during the pandemic hasn’t been easy but the staff have been so supportive. My flat mates and I have become so close because of the lockdowns and we have lifted each other up when any of us have been feeling down or missing home.

I would advise anyone looking to study at the University of Sunderland to definitely go for it. Everyone, including staff and students, is so helpful and welcoming. There are so many opportunities to meet new people through a range of societies – I play netball which is a good break away from studying. The facilities are fantastic, especially the Sciences Complex. In anatomy sessions we have access to the anatomage table which allows us to visualise internal structures and see how they all piece together. This experience has been invaluable.

In the future I would love to be able to work either in a hospital on the wards or as a GP helping the community. I have an interest in paediatrics at the moment but with the vast amounts of placements on offer, this may change.

I can honestly say I am loving every second.”

Published 31 March 2021