The first two things I usually say when I introduce myself are that, one, I was born and raised in Barbados and, two, I’m the last born of a triplet.
Moving to London was definitely one of the first major turning points in my life and a massive learning curve coming from the Caribbean. Four years later though, I really can’t imagine having my university experience anywhere else.
I started at St George’s in 2016 and I‘ve just begun the penultimate year of Medicine following an Intercalated BSc in Genomics.
My journey has had (and will continue to have, I’m sure) its fair share of ups and downs just like everyone else, but I have a very strong support system of family and friends that I know I can always lean on.
As most international students can attest to, a major challenge of living in the UK is adjusting to the new culture and way of life. Trying to find my feet in a new country and new environment took some time but every obstacle that I face, big or small, I take one step at a time. I try to focus on the present and not get overwhelmed by the larger picture.
I’ve learnt a lot about myself and a lot about others in the process and I wouldn’t trade that personal growth for anything. I don’t have any regrets.
Medicine takes up a huge amount of my day-to-day life, but, maintaining a balance with other interests is very important to me. I’ve always loved listening to different types of music and exposing myself to new genres and sounds. I played the piano when I was younger and, right now, I’m actually teaching myself the guitar which is a new challenge that I’m really embracing and having fun with.
I’m also very passionate about volunteering and I’m a huge advocate for increasing the exposure of ethnic minority groups to medicine. In the last year, I’ve started volunteering with The Armitage Foundation where I get to work with a fantastic team and serve as part of their Medical Advisory Panel.
I really do love being a student at St George’s. I’ve met some great people and made some amazing friends here. The close interface between St George’s Hospital and the University allows students to get a true insight into the working life of healthcare professionals and facilitate our professional development.
I’ve been involved with societies like Students for Kids International Projects (SKIP), the Surgical Society, Afro-Caribbean Society, Photography Society and the Christian Union. I also had the chance to participate in the Tooting Show in 2018 which was a step outside of my comfort zone but definitely one of my university highlights and an experience I’m very glad I was able to be a part of.
I’m a strong believer that everything happens for a reason and I do think that I have grown from everything that has happened to me, not only over these last four years, but throughout my life so far. There’s always a lesson to be learnt.
My family are my biggest inspiration - I try to emulate them every day. My parents are the most hardworking people I know, my sister is creative and kind, and my brother is generous and practical. All of these qualities not only make a great doctor, but also a great person.