Country: Canada
Foundation Year 1 Doctor
Menaka Raghuraman "Birmingham is a vibrant city in the heart of England and has given me the opportunity to meet people from all corners of the world and gain a rather eclectic taste of British culture"
What did you like most about the city of Birmingham or living and studying in the UK?
Birmingham is a vibrant city in the heart of England and has given me the opportunity to meet people from all corners of the world and gain a rather eclectic taste of British 
culture. The best part about studying in the UK is having the opportunity to take part in group activities within the university on such a large scale. As a final year medical student I took part in the Final Year Dinner Fashion Show: “Junior Doctors- The Musical”. This alongside many other activities of the various Guild of Students societies made my university experience unforgettable.
Why did you choose Medicine at Birmingham?
Both my parents completed their medical training in the UK and always spoke very fondly of their experiences, so I had my heart set on doing medicine in the UK. On my interview day, I also found that all the medical students were so enthusiastic about Birmingham especially about the social life. I also fell in love with the campus on the tour, so after that there was no doubt in my mind that Birmingham was the place to be.
How would you describe the Medical School in no more than three words?
History. Camaraderie. Innovation.
What did you find was the biggest culture shock when moving to Birmingham?
Trying to train myself to call the 'bathroom' a 'toilet' and learning to decipher the Black Country accent during my first year general practice placement.
What did you think were the best points of the MBChB degree and the University?
Academically, the time spent on the wards was invaluable. At Birmingham we’re also given the unique opportunity to rotate through many hospitals across the West Midlands giving a much more rounded clinical experience. Socially, having the opportunity to participate in various activities of the Medical Society including the annual Medball, Weekend Away and Fashion Week has been the highlight of my five years at Birmingham.
What advice would you give to current students studying on the course?
Medicine is a wonderful course and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my five years. Looking back I would advise students to work consistently but to make every effort to enjoy their time as much as possible. Although the course can be demanding at times, there are plenty opportunities to let your hair down, so make the most of it!