Where are you now?
Since graduating in 2017 my career has been split between clinical and academic work, including completing a PhD last year (something I never thought possible back when I started medical school!).
I’m currently a Lecturer in Medical Education (Research Methods) back at BSMS, based in Watson building. This role involves research, teaching, and supervision of research on the postgraduate courses at the medical school. I also get involved with IRPs. I also currently have another hat as the Research Lead for Autistic Doctors International (ADI), which involves co-ordinating ADI’s research projects and publications. In the clinical world I’m a part-time GP trainee based down the road in Worthing, where I work three days a week for the NHS.
Where would you like your career to take you next?
Contrary to everything I would have thought back as a phase 1/2 medical student, I suspect my career will always centre around academia. Through personal experience of being autistic and dyslexic, I’m passionate about neurodivergence in medical education, and this is central to most of the research I do. Who knows what direction this might take me in next!
What has it been like working on the front line during a pandemic?
In a word – stressful! Despite that, it has also been wonderful to see the various NHS teams I have worked in over the past two years come together and work hard to continue delivering a high standard of care for our patients with a smile and a strong sense of camaraderie.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
Two specific pieces of advice come to mind:
To let myself achieve, but not to strive for constant perfection, and to foster and embrace creativity.
Just because something has always been done in a particular way does not mean that is the only way - or indeed the best way!
What was the best thing about studying at BSMS?
Studying at BSMS inspired me to develop my own interests and passions within medicine. My time as a medical student set me up well for a rich and varied career, which I’m still so thankful for.