Aspiring medics have been welcomed into clinical settings this month, inspiring and preparing the island’s next generation of doctors, nurses and surgeons.
The annual ‘Taste of Medicine’ week is held by Medical Specialist Group (MSG) every year, inviting local sixth formers to shadow doctors during outpatient clinics, ward rounds, operations and in the “fast paced” Emergency Department.
The experience helps those interested in a medical career to take their first-steps, supports university applications, explore different specialisms and have the chance to talk to doctors about their careers.
Siân Craig, one of the students, said the week gave her “a wonderful insight” into the world of medicine and broadened her horizons to departments she hadn’t previously considered.
She said it was “fascinating” to see procedures ranging from orthopaedic surgeries to clinical examinations.
“I was inspired by how these diverse teams work together, especially behind the scenes. I found it to be a very friendly community and an exceptional place to potentially work.”
Over the years, the ‘Taste of Medicine’ week has welcomed more than 100 students.
It’s one part of MSG’s initiative to support and encourage young islanders to consider a career in medicine; they also provide a bursary to support the future health of Guernsey’s medical teams.
Ella Burchell, another student, said: “I now have clarity that helping people in the way I observed every healthcare worker doing … is something I want to work towards doing one day.
“My highlight was being able to speak to patients about my aspirations and hearing their encouragements to pursue medicine, as those are the kind of words that really motivate and stick with me.”
Dr Kalaivani Ramalingam said the students had “an eager learning spirit and experienced the range of healthcare facilities on the island”.
“We wish them well in their future careers in medicine and allied fields,” Dr Ramalingam added.
