Freddie Ayliffe
What did you enjoy most about your degree programme?
Opportunity to live in both Exeter and Cornwall during my degree, which meant I really got time to explore the South West and enjoy all it has to offer! I also enjoyed the opportunity to do an intercalated degree and explore different science fields at university.
Some of the students we are profiling have been awarded a departmental prize or award in recognition of their exceptional achievements. If this applies to you, please can you tell us about this and what it means to you?
I received a distinction for my BMBS degree as well as my BSc in Evolutionary Biology which I am extremely proud of myself for. I worked extremely hard for both of the degrees, whilst also managing to have a good time at university. The courses are extremely engaging and very enjoyable.
Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?
Medics touch rugby, medics hockey, medics football, Exeter University Surf Club, medics surf club, Truro Paediatric Society
What was the highlight of your time at Exeter?
Being able to do part of my degree in Truro and spend my free time from my medical degree surfing, on the beach, and going on amazing walks all around Cornwall!
What will you miss the most about University?
The friendships are amazing and I will really miss going out on sports events with everyone, such as Medic Hockey tournaments and the joint medical school ski trips.
What advice would you give to current and future students? (If you are an international student what would you like to tell future students from back home who might be thinking about applying to study in Exeter?)
Work hard, have fun. There is definitely a great balance between spending hours in the library, but also making sure you get the hair wet in the sea (or whatever hobbies you have!) in your free time. It is very easy to lose your work life balance, but I promise it is the only thing that keeps you motivated. Find a great hobby and stick with it.
What are your plans now that you have graduated?
Start work in the NHS and hopefully work my way up to being a consultant, taking as many opportunities to practice for charities and in different countries.