Malaika Sujeesh

After further reading, I liked the layout of the course as it followed spiral learning.  Especially in content heavy courses such as Medicine, it is crucial to continuously revise and review material, so I believed that spiral learning would coincide well with my study techniques. There are also only around 150 students in my course, fostering opportunities to participate and indulge in interaction between student and staff. Thus, I thought that I would have an environment that will allow me to prosper both academically and socially. Most importantly the small cohort also means there is greater connection with the close-knit cohort, nurturing a healthy journey throughout Medical School. 

How did you find the process of moving to Swansea?

The move from Melbourne to Swansea was quite daunting. I initially was worried about a culture shock, the infamous UK wintry weather and finding new friends. However, I realised that through making local friends you learn to adapt and fit into the Swansea lifestyle (and wear lots of layers in winter!) Another concern for me was the drastic time difference between Wales and Australia but again you figure out a way to schedule friends and family from overseas into your routine here. Overall, although it was a bit overwhelming at first, I absolutely love what I am doing now and would not change it for anything.

What are your top 3 favourite things about Swansea (the city/area)?

• I love that the beach is so close so you can always go down for a refreshing stroll or swim.
• Mumbles ice cream and restaurants have a nice ambience and delicious food!
• Lots of beautiful natural sceneries to go and explore such as Langland bay.

What is your favourite thing about your course?

I love the fact that Swansea GEM allows me to do placement from first year. Often in Medical school it can be quite difficult to learn content when it is segregated from the clinical aspects of Medicine. Doing placement from the get-go will allow me to expand and practice both my clinical and theoretical knowledge learnt through course material. Moreover, the Learning Opportunity in the Clinical Settings gives us important experiential clinical learning during first and second year which often correlates with future clinical confidence, job and academic progression. Similarly, Community-Based Placements in the first year allows me to implement my ICM skills on real patients further solidifying my communication skills. Most importantly, clinical apprenticeship 1 allows me to have the full experience of receiving, diagnosing and treating patients in a hospital setting. This exposure so early on is very valuable and unique to Swansea University.

What are you planning/hoping to do after you graduate?

I am not set in stone at the moment because there is a lot of variability in Medicine, depending on the route you choose. However, at the moment I plan on doing my Foundation training in the UK and see where that takes me.

Would you recommend Swansea University to other students? Why?

100%! Swansea University is a very well-equipped university that caters to all, especially international students, well. There is a strong focus providing support to students in terms of career progression, international opportunities, mental wellbeing, research and teaching excellence which results in a successful graduate.

What top tips would you give to international students who are considering applying to Swansea?

• If you are worried about the move, don’t be! This is very normal, and you will fit in well
• Sort out your accommodation early
• Bring an umbrella or raincoat!
• Cycling is a useful mode of transportation