Meet Canadian alumna Barbara Alexander

Barbara Alexander (MBChB Medicine, 1968)'s connections to Birmingham could be argued to go back almost 90 years, as her father was the first of her family to study at the University.

Barbara is a key contact for the alumni office in Canada, giving her time to help organise and run events in the country.

Where did you spend your childhood and what did you want to be when you grew up?
I was born and raised in Tehran, Iran, and then went to boarding school in England to do O and A levels. I always planned to be a doctor from an early age.

Why did you choose Birmingham as a place to study?
My father (the late Professor Nosrat Ameli (MBChB Medicine, 1937)) and oldest brother Michael (MBChB Medicine, 1963) studied medicine at Birmingham before me. It was the natural choice to follow them.

What are your fondest memories of the University?
I will always remember my fellow students and the courses we took together, as well as the bonds we shared outside the lecture theatres.

What was your career path after graduating from Birmingham? How did you end up living in Canada?
After meeting my husband Anthony (BSc Civil Engineering, 1960; MSc Transportation and Highway Engineering, 1963) during our studies at Birmingham, we emigrated to Canada, and I spent most of my career here as a Emergency Physician.

What is your proudest achievement in your career?
Being able to help others, every day.

What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
Always expect to learn something new, expect change, and listen to what others have to say.

What advice would you give to current students at the University?
Enjoy every part of your life, work towards the best for all, and be motivated to accept challenges.

Why do you volunteer for the University?
I enjoy promoting the University and connecting alumni.