A FORMER Coleg Cambria student whose medical journey has taken her from North Wales to hospitals in Vietnam is now working as a resident doctor in the NHS, with ambitions for a career in oncology.
Louise Barnard, 25, from Gwaenysgor, near Prestatyn, studied A Level Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics and the Welsh Baccalaureate at Cambria’s Deeside Sixth before progressing to Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) at Newcastle University.
Her degree included a medical elective in Vietnam, where she gained hands-on experience in a very different healthcare system while also taking the opportunity to travel across South East Asia.
Having successfully completed her medical degree, Louise is now undertaking Foundation Training as a resident doctor in Glasgow.
She hopes to spend time working overseas before applying for Internal Medicine Training, with oncology her long-term career goal.
Alongside her clinical role, Louise is studying for a Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Education with the University of Warwick, developing skills for the teaching responsibilities that form an important part of a doctor’s career.
Reflecting on her journey, Louise said: “Although medical school had its challenges, it was an incredibly rewarding experience that prepared me well for my career so far.
“One particular highlight was the opportunity to undertake a medical elective in Vietnam which allowed me to experience a very different healthcare system and culture, as well as travel around South East Asia.”
Louise credits her years at Coleg Cambria with helping to build the independence and confidence she needed to take the next step into higher education.
“Looking back, I feel that Coleg Cambria helped develop my independence and confidence as an adult learner, which made the transition to university much smoother.
“I would highly recommend studying there and am very grateful to the teachers who encouraged and supported me throughout my A Levels and during my university applications.”
She added: “I’d also like to wish Deeside Sixth a very happy 10th anniversary – it’s brilliant to see how far it’s come.”
And her advice to students considering their own next steps is to be ambitious and make the most of every opportunity.
“To anyone who is unsure about their career path; aim high, be proactive in seeking opportunities to gain experience, ask plenty of questions, and find a mentor who can offer guidance and support along the way.”
Mim Riddell, Head of Deeside Sixth and Assistant Principal for Academic Studies, said: “Louise’s achievements are a wonderful example of what can be accomplished through dedication, resilience and a genuine passion for learning.
“Throughout her time at Deeside Sixth she demonstrated the commitment and ambition needed to pursue one of the most demanding university courses, and it has been fantastic to see her progress into a career where she is already making a real difference to people’s lives.”
