Ellena Briggs – Medicine

Unlike many doctors, my journey to Edge Hill Medical School has been shaped by a culmination of experiences. At heart, I’ve always been a ‘mother hen’ naturally drawn to caring for others, while my mind is constantly running at a million miles an hour, eager to learn and explore. My fascination with the intricacies of the human body, physiology, and pharmacology led me to complete a first degree in Biological and Medical Sciences, followed by several years working in medical affairs. While I found the work interesting, it never truly fulfilled me.

The decision to change career paths was daunting. I was only 23, but had a stable job that I enjoyed well enough. However, my passion for science, combined with an innate desire to nurture and support others, ultimately won out. That realisation led me to apply for medicine, and having already achieved a first-class honours degree, I was fortunate to receive guaranteed offers from all the universities I applied to.

Edge Hill’s campus environment and small class sizes stood out to me. Having previously studied at a city-based university, I liked the campus. Everything was in one place, and there were green spaces to take breaks in between lectures. The small class sizes were particularly appealing, as I wanted an environment where I could actively engage with teaching. I studied in class sizes of over 400 during my first degree, and I knew how difficult asking questions and finding your way around a confusing topic could be in those circumstances. And the clinical skills building (CSSC) offered the opportunity to engage in simulation and skills training that would support my learning prior to placement.

One of the best things about Edge Hill is its unique approach to clinical placements. Unlike many other medical schools, we’re allocated specific hospitals for the duration of our training, rather than moving to a different site for each rotation. This continuity has had a hugely positive impact on my learning, allowing me to build strong relationships with clinicians, feel part of a team, and gain a deeper understanding of the hospital system. While we still attend tertiary centres for specialist training, having a base trust has provided a sense of stability and familiarity that has made clinical learning more effective and enjoyable.

I spent time in primary care centres on Vancouver Island, Canada, as part of my elective placement in 4th year. Attending placements in a variety of clinical settings has been amazing. It’s been an absolute privilege to play a part in the care of so many people, observing clinical appointments, surgeries, and interventions. I’ve learned so much at my base trust Whiston Hospital, and have also had the opportunity to visit specialist centres such as Alder Hey Children’s Hospital and The Walton Centre. Additionally, my time in various GP surgeries has allowed me to develop a strong appreciation for primary care.

I feel like I’ve learned hundreds of thousands of facts. About the human body in a healthy and diseased state, medicines, communication skills, psychology, ethics, leadership. While it’s true that a lot of learning happens on placement and it’s a great place to consolidate knowledge, lectures gave me a basis for all of this. Lecturers are always willing to answer questions, expand on topics and there are some amazing lecturers that are cheering us on, driving us to be amazing doctors.

The Catalyst (library) is not just an amazing learning space, but a great source of academic support, including essay-writing guidance and access to additional software like EndNote referencing. And the money advice team has provided essential guidance, particularly around the NHS bursary. They’ve taken the time to walk us through the application process and ensure we get the support we’re entitled to.

Once I qualify I’ll have the flexibility to pursue a career in any medical specialty, allowing me to shape my career in a way that aligns with my passions and skills. Beyond clinical training, I’ve been fortunate to secure a place on a Specialist Foundation Programme in Leadership, which will provide me with the skills to take my career even further. This opportunity will not only enhance my ability to lead and influence within healthcare but also allow me to contribute to improving patient care on a wider scale. This degree has opened up a world of opportunities for me.

I hope to enter GP training. After graduation, I’ll be starting my role as a foundation doctor, which will take me through the next two years of training, before hopefully training to be a GP. Primary care holds a special place in my heart. I see it as the gateway to the rest of the NHS – if we get it right, patients feel empowered, supported, and well cared for. I also want to take some time for myself, as a 48-hour week is a huge commitment. I’m looking into less-than-full-time training to create a better balance, and, most importantly, I’d love to start a family.

There’s no sugar-coating it – medicine is hard. It requires dedication, sacrifice (more missed social events than I can count!), and sheer grit to keep going. I was told it would be tough, but I could never have imagined just how much until I was in the middle of it. That’s something I feel should be said loudly to anyone considering this path.

Having said that, if you hear this and still know deep down that medicine is the career for you, then go for it: it’s one of the most rewarding professions, offering the privilege of making a real difference in people’s lives.

Little things at Edge Hill have made a big difference to my journey. On-campus parking is a lifesaver, the smaller class sizes mean you get to know your peers and lecturers well, and seeing familiar faces around campus makes a difference. And of course, the free food from time to time, the campus pizza vans, and even the occasional ice cream truck are always a welcome treat.