This week’s Lunch Lecture was given by Nicole Asemota MRCS, MBBS, BMedSci, AFHEA, a current PhD Student at Darwin College, Cambridge, a Cardiothoracic Surgery Registrar in Cambridge and London and a Co-Founder of The London School of Cardiothoracics.

Nicole spoke of the journey and realities of studying to become a doctor, showing students that applying for medicine is not only for a degree but for a profession that takes many year and multiple stages to master. While the requirements of medicine are demanding, Nicole showed us this was for good reason, as tackling medical school requires dedication and the ability to deal with a voluminous workload. Pulling from the peaks and troughs of her own career so far, all the way from Senior School to becoming a Registrar, Nicole’s story highlighted just how important it is to be kind to everyone you meet.

“It’s all about who you know and being nice to people,” Miss Asemota explained. 

The Lunch n’ Learners then heard all about robotic surgery and the day to day as a doctor, including the ward rounds, calls, clinic, and surgery, as well as her experience during Covid. Her final advice for someone wanting to enter the field is work hard, start early, don’t stress, network and, of course, enjoy the ride. 

She spoke with such enthusiasm and passion that many students walked away feeling inspired, but most importantly armed with the realities of the lengthy process required to succeed, as well as reassured that, even if you don’t the first time, you should keep trying and you’ll get there in the end! 

Join us next week at Lunch ‘n Learn for yet another inspirational lecture! 

Gaby da Silveira Pinheiro, STEAM Prefect and Lower Sixth Student