Ever since I can remember, I have dreamed about becoming a physician. All throughout high school and my undergraduate degree I made sure not to lose sight of that goal. Upon graduating from Wilfrid Laurier University, I had heard about Atlantic Bridge and studying medicine abroad from several older students. The thought of living and studying abroad excited me and made me nervous all at the same time. However, I was willing to do what it took to achieve my dream of becoming a physician.
The day I received my acceptance email to Trinity College Dublin from Atlantic Bridge is a day I will never forget. After several long discussions with my friends and family, I knew accepting my offer to Trinity was the right choice for my future. I knew my decision to study medicine in Ireland was not going to be without its hardships and challenges, but my amazing support system of family and friends back at home made the transition of moving to a new country so much easier than I ever expected it to be.
The first year studying at Trinity was the perfect transition from my undergraduate degree into medicine. After completing a BSc in Health Sciences, I was well prepared for the course content and amount of material that was taught in first year. The School of Medicine at Trinity College also makes the transition into medical school much more enjoyable for students by providing many helpful resources, such as S2S mentors and tutors to each student. On my very first day at Trinity I was introduced to the amazing Trinity NIMSA (North American Irish Medical Student’s Association) committee. If you choose to study in Ireland, I highly suggest joining NIMSA. It is a great way to get to know other North Americans who are in the same positon as you. It is a great support system and the upper year students are always happy to provide insight and helpful study tactics for school and future board exams.
The professors and lab coordinators at Trinity are extremely knowledgeable in their field of work. You attend each lecture knowing that you are getting a quality education from experts who are passionate about teaching medical students. Second year has definitely been challenging, but knowing that we start clinical rotations next year and are one step closer to being physicians has made it all worth it.
Not only has it been a great experience thus far, it has also been amazing to be living in such a beautiful country. Ireland captivates you with its beauty and history. There are so many wonderful places to explore whether you hop on the Dart to go to Howth for the day, or take a weekend trip to Belfast.
My experience of studying in Ireland has been an opportunity of a lifetime. I never imagined I would be able to achieve my dream of becoming a physician while also travelling the world. Studying abroad has given me the chance to meet so many new people that share the same interests and passions as I do, and I can’t wait to see the amazing things we will accomplish as future physicians. Atlantic Bridge and studying at Trinity College has built up my character for the better in so many ways. I am extremely happy with my decision to study medicine at Trinity College, I can’t wait to see what the next 3 years has in store.
