Growing up near Dublin, I had long imagined that I would pursue my dream of studying medicine right in the heart of the bustling city. However, as fate would have it, life had different plans in store. Nevertheless, finding my academic home at Queen's University has turned out to be one of the most rewarding experiences, and here's why:

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A prestigious school with a rich history

Queen's University offers an exhilarating experience for aspiring medical professionals. With the medical school first being established in 1835, the school has seen a number of students pass through its door who have become renowned individuals in their profession.

From day one, the programme provides early clinical exposure, which I found immensely engaging. Queen's also distinguishes itself as one of the select few medical schools in the UK where students learn anatomy through hands-on cadaveric dissection, enhancing our understanding of the human body.

Yet, what truly sets Queen's School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Biomedical Sciences apart is the coveted summer studentship. These unique opportunities enable students to collaborate closely with esteemed faculty members, diving into cutting-edge research areas. It's not just about gaining research experience; it's about actively contributing to the advancement of medical knowledge.

READ: Make the Most of Your Medicine Degree with a Summer Studentship

This blend of clinical exposure, innovative teaching methods, and research prospects makes Queen's University an inspiring choice for those pursuing a medical career.

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To move or not to move

University represents a unique opportunity to embrace independence, particularly when you make the leap to living away from home and take on responsibilities like cooking, cleaning, and self-care for the first time. It’s a common misconception that a great distance is required to achieve true independence but I’ve realised that this isn’t the case.

Relocating to Belfast from the Republic meant that I was always just a short two-hour train ride away from home. This arrangement offered me the best of both worlds – the independence that comes with moving to a different country, along with the added advantage of being able to return home for most weekends to see my dog.

During my first year, I had the opportunity to discover what it's like to live independently while never being too far from the comfort of a homemade meal. Finding the right balance between self-reliance and enjoying the occasional return to the family nest might be a bit tricky at first (speaking from personal experience!), but with time and practise, it can be achieved.

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Stepping into a new city

Since arriving in Belfast, I have been overwhelmed by the warm embrace of this vibrant city. From the moment I set foot here, I felt an immediate sense of inclusivity. The people of Belfast have a remarkable knack for making newcomers feel right at home.

Whether it's striking up a friendly conversation with a stranger at a local café, receiving a warm welcome from my professors and classmates at the university, or simply strolling through the streets filled with smiles and greetings, there is a charm about the city.

Belfast's rich history and culture blend seamlessly with its modern and cosmopolitan atmosphere, making it a place where diversity is celebrated and differences are embraced. It's this sense of community and acceptance that has made my time in Belfast truly unforgettable, and I can't wait to continue exploring and experiencing all the warmth this city has to offer in the next academic year.

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Like the Spice Girls said, “if you wanna be my lover, you gotta get with my friends”

Making friends during university has been an enriching journey filled with memorable moments. One of the best ways to connect with others was by actively participating in various clubs and societies on campus and with 200+ clubs and societies at your fingertips, Queen’s has got you covered. There is something for everyone so you’re destined to meet like-minded individuals. These organisations provide fantastic opportunities to meet individuals who share your interests, whether it is through sports, arts, or shared hobbies.

As a medical student, our Case Based Learning tutorials were another asset in my friendship-making arsenal; tackling challenging coursework together not only made learning more enjoyable but also fostered deep bonds. I also embraced social events and gatherings, from lively student parties to casual coffee meet-ups, which offered the perfect backdrop for forging new connections.

^{Over 200 clubs and societies to choose from!}

Additionally, volunteering for community initiatives allowed me to meet fellow students who were passionate about making a positive impact. Queen’s assist students who want to volunteer with initiatives such as Handy Helpers, allowing students to fit volunteering into their timetable and choosing activities that you want to participate in based on interests and availability.

In essence, being open to new experiences, seeking out common interests, and putting myself out there helped me build a fantastic circle of friends that have made my university experience all the more remarkable.

Find out more

Medicine at Queen's

Life in Belfast

Medical Student Life: Expectation vs. Reality

Disha Suresh Kumar Medicine| Undergraduate Student | Dublin, Ireland Hi! I’m Disha, a 20 year old student originally from Bray - a little seaside town just outside of Dublin. I am a second year medical student  at Queen’s and have been enjoying every moment of it! I love my course because it combines my love for helping people with the complexities of the human body, something which has always fascinated me. Since coming to Queens, I’ve joined clubs such as surgical society (QUB Scrubs) and WoMED. If you ever see me on campus, stop me for chat as I’d love to say hi! I hope my blogs help prospective students with questions they might have about university or medicine in general as I was in a similar position not so long ago!