Karen Ellis
What did you enjoy most about your degree programme?
The BMBS course provided an opportunity to work in all medical specialties, giving a small taste into future career possibilities. I particularly enjoyed the trip to Ethiopia which I completed as part of an SSU, which provided insight into how medicine differs in lower income and resource poor countries; not just in terms of the medical management but in terms of the diseases and late presentation of the majority of patients. I found the research project I undertook as part of my intercalation in genetics to be the most helpful part of the BSc. Using the skills I learned as part of intercalating I feel confident in carrying out my own research and analysis.
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?
UEMS intercalated degree bursary prize 2018 UEMS Dean’s Fund 2017.
Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?
President and Events organiser of Exeter Student Marrow, Social Secretary for Medics Netball and Charity Secretary for Truro Medsoc.
What was the highlight of your time at Exeter?
This would have to be all of the extracurricular events, both sporting and charitable, that I have been lucky enough to take part in whilst at Exeter. Including the annual marrow soiree, RAG’s jailbreak, touch ducks and a multitude of netball tournaments.
What will you miss the most about University?
The incredible group of friends, colleges and staff that I have met throughout my time in both Exeter and Truro.
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?)
Throw yourself into every aspect of university life that appeals to you. Pursue the work and topics which interest you because your passion will come through.
What are your plans now that you have graduated?
I have my final year to complete of the BMBS programme, once I qualify as a doctor I am hoping to complete my foundation training in Sheffield and ultimately become an oncologist. I would also like to run a marathon, start competing in triathlons and travel around South and Central America.
