Nana
MBBS Medicine
At university, you have the chance to grow and explore; and Imperial have provided a supportive and lovely environment for me to do that.
Choosing to study close to home gave Nana the chance to experience a world-leading university while staying connected to the city she knows best. From taking on leadership roles in student societies to making the most of life on campus and across London, she shares how Imperial has helped her grow both inside and outside the classroom.
Why did you choose to study medicine?
I've always wanted to study MBBS Medicine because it's a career that brings together everything I enjoy. I love the academic side of learning and the challenge of understanding how the human body works, but I also wanted a career where I could have a meaningful impact on people's lives. Medicine gives you the opportunity to support people during some of the most important and vulnerable moments they'll experience, and that's something I find incredibly rewarding.
Another reason I chose medicine is that no two days are the same. The course is so varied, from lectures and research to clinical placements where you interact with patients from the very beginning. I like that it constantly challenges you to develop not only your scientific knowledge but also your communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills.
What's your course like at Imperial?
Medicine is an interesting course with a large cohort and various modules. They have clinical placements from first year and lectures from experts in the field. We develop different skills and have access to amazing resources and technology.
The MBBS course is a six-year Medicine degree that combines scientific research with early clinical experience. Students begin learning biomedical sciences alongside patient interaction from Year 1 through GP and hospital placements.
The course is divided into three phases: the first focuses on medical sciences and clinical foundations, the fourth year includes a research-based BSc specialism and the final years concentrate on clinical rotations across major medical specialties.
Being able to apply our learning and knowledge from lectures and tutorials first-hand in our placements has been the highlight for me.
What's the Imperial community like?
Imperial is known for having so many different societies. I love how many people there are. You genuinely meet all kinds of people from different walks of life. You build different relationships, grow your network and gain new insights in life.
I have found communities in lots of different spaces – on my course, through societies and in halls.
Before term started, I met other first-year students and older students by joining group chats for my course and accommodation. During Welcome Week there were loads of events run by my accommodation, course and societies in loads of different settings e.g. parties, sit-downs, games nights, pub-quizzes etc. This gave me many opportunities to meet people with similar interests from a range of different backgrounds.
I'm also part of the African Caribbean society (ACS), which aims to create a strong community between students of African and Caribbean heritage, and include students from different backgrounds who want to celebrate with us, and support us. Through this society, I have managed to make lifelong friends and create unforgettable memories.
What opportunities have you made the most of?
I made the most of student life from the very beginning, joining a variety of societies in my first year. Imperial is known for its vibrant student community, with over 300 societies to choose from, so there really is something for everyone. As I became more involved, I took on a subcommittee role in my second year before progressing to two committee positions in my third year, giving back to the societies that had given me so much during my first years at university. Alongside this, I also work as a student ambassador, which has been another rewarding way to support prospective students and represent the university.
Placements are one of the most rewarding aspects of studying medicine, as they provide the opportunity to speak with patients and support them during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills, boosted my confidence both inside and outside of medicine, and given me the self-belief to embrace new opportunities and challenges.
After graduating from Imperial
Typically after graduating in medicine, you go on to work as a foundation doctor for the NHS – so that’s the path I’m most likely to follow. However, I’ve still got a few years to explore other potential options and build other skills in the meantime.
Nana's top tips for studying at Imperial
Enjoy the journey rather than focusing only on the end goal. Applying to medical school can feel overwhelming, but every experience will teach you something valuable.
My advice would be not to take on the challenge alone. There are so many people going through the same thing and even more of us with experience and knowledge we’re happy to share. If you’re unsure about anything – ask questions! Medicine is a journey with many different avenues to explore and amazing people to meet along the way. Make the most of every opportunity by speaking to current students, attending open days and course talks and visiting campuses to get all your questions answered. Gain work experience or volunteer in healthcare settings where possible and take time to reflect on what these experiences teach you about the realities of a career in medicine.
You're never alone, you have a community around who are always keen to help you with your journey.
Consider whether the teaching style, campus environment and support available suit your learning and personal needs. Remember that every medical school offers something different, so focus on finding the course that feels like the best fit for you. Above all, speak to current medical students to gain an honest insight into the course and decide whether medicine is the right path for you, as it is a rewarding but significant commitment.
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