“My journey as a mature medical student has been great so far”

“I knew from very early on that I enjoyed relating to others empathically and caring for people in challenging times. As a teenager I spent many hours in my free time volunteering with children with disabilities. But I was fascinated by the idea of discovery and cutting-edge science, so I decided to study Biomedical Sciences at Durham University.

“It was there that I first began thinking about medicine in my final term, whilst doing my lab-based research project. Although I enjoyed the challenge and excitement of it, I knew I wanted more; something where I could translate my academic pursuits into a helpful action immediately. So the idea of pursuing medicine began.

“After a gap year in the Philippines working at a school and spending my weekends at local hospitals with some French doctors, my desire to be a doctor was starting to take shape. It took a few more years of exploration before I settled on this decision. I am grateful for this time as it now helps me during intense and difficult times to be firm and rooted in my decision.

My journey as a mature medical student at the University of Sheffield, with a degree and previous employment, has been great so far. I have loved being able to interact with patients from my first term and apply what I have learnt in lectures in the context of real lives of patients.

Visitation Lesterpearson

MBChB Medicine

"Dissections have also been a real highlight! It’s been extraordinary to visualise the human body in 3D and a real humbling experience to learn in such a way.

“The sense of community and peer-teaching from older medics, especially during the exam season, has been hugely helpful too! I am looking forward to the rest of my time here.

“As for Sheffield, I love that the city is both small enough and big enough. I can walk into the Peak District from my house - which is amazing really! There is such stunning scenery and nature at my doorstep! I find going to the peaks is the best way I de-stress!

“My advice for those wanting to pursue medicine is to be realistic about what it involves: stress, rewards, work-life balance, high expectations, and working in the NHS. If it is still what you want to do, then go passionately for it - it'll be worth it!”