During our recent graduation ceremonies, we caught up with two newly qualified Queen Mary doctors, Lynda and Adebayo, as they prepared for their new roles as resident doctors in the NHS. They spoke about their time at Queen Mary, and how the course has prepared them for life on the wards.
Meet Lynda

"Medicine at Queen Mary really pushes us to see our patients not just as a list of problems to solve, but as people and human beings to connect with on a deep, genuine level."
What degree programme did you study?
Medicine MBBS
What are your plans after graduation?
I'm going to be starting my first rotation as a resident doctor in London, beginning in general surgery.
How has studying medicine at Queen Mary helped prepare you for that?
I think studying medicine at Queen Mary really pushes us to see our patients not just as a list of problems to solve, but as people and human beings to connect with on a deep, genuine level. I think that's actually really rare, and it's something we don't always see in graduates from other universities. That's what has prepared me the most for working as a doctor.
What are some of the highlights of your course?
The biggest highlight of studying medicine at Queen Mary has definitely been the diversity of our local population. Not only the patients we care for, but also the staff who teach us and the students in our cohort. You really get to meet people from all walks of life.
Meet Adebayo

"Queen Mary is definitely the place to become a great doctor"
What degree programme did you study?
Medicine MBBS
What are your plans after graduation?
Next week I start work as a resident doctor in Manchester. I'll be starting in general surgery as my first job, and I'm really excited. I can't wait to begin this next chapter.
How has studying medicine at Queen Mary helped prepare you for that?
I think Queen Mary has prepared me in the best way possible. At this university, they really teach us the soft skills that are so important in becoming a great doctor. Aside from the academics, which is a given, they place such an emphasis on building relationships and building rapport with colleagues and patients. I think that's the difference between a good doctor and a great doctor, and Queen Mary is definitely the place to become a great doctor.
What are some of the highlights of your course?
The highlight of studying Medicine at Queen Mary has been meeting so many great people. I've made lifelong friends, and it's been such a positive environment to learn in. I'm definitely going to miss studying at Queen Mary.