Dr Rachel Brewster is a Senior House Officer at Bristol Royal Infirmary. Rachel graduated from Birmingham in 2013
What are your career experiences since graduating from the University of Birmingham?
I did my foundation training in Wales - Aberystwyth and then Bridgend. I then took 2 years out of training and spent 6 months back in Birmingham working at Russells Hall Hospital, Dudley and then spent some time travelling in South America. I then went away with my partner to New Zealand and spent just under a year living, working and travelling around. I worked in an Urgent Care Centre in Auckland. Then when we came home we moved to Bristol where I am nearly finished the first year of GP training.
What is your current role and what does it involve?
I currently work as a Senior House Officer in the A&E department at Bristol Royal Infirmary. I will move onto working in a GP surgery in August.
What do you love the most about your job and what is the biggest challenge?
Being able to make a difference and care for people. Really unwell patients are a challenge but also those who aren't unwell and need to be reassured or directed to other places.
What attracted you to studying at Birmingham?
The fact that University of Birmingham was a campus university really attracted me, everything is in one place. The Medical School building is also really nice. I am originally from Bristol, so the opportunity to live and explore a new city like Birmingham was another big attraction.
How would you sum up your time at the University of Birmingham in three words?
Challenging. Hilarious. Growth.
What inspired you most during your time at Birmingham?
A variety of things: My friends, fellow medical students, University of Birmingham tennis club, the University chamber choir, and finally lecturers who had a real passion for their topic.
What tips/advice would you give to people who are considering studying your course at Birmingham?
It is tough and such a big year group but you will find your niche, speak out if you are struggling there is great support. Birmingham is a fab city and fun university to spread your wings also.
How would you advise people to make the most of their time on their course?
Take really good notes especially in small group teaching tutorials. Try and attend as much as possible.
And finally, is there anything else you'd like to share?
Thank you to everyone who made my time at Birmingham what it was and the memories I still have 10 years after starting.