“My time at UCD has been, in a word, transformative. Over the past five years, I have experienced significant personal growth, embracing all the opportunities that come my way in order to shape my academic and interpersonal skills. At UCD, I have learned so much, and created long lasting friendships that I hope I will carry forward with me. 

The impact that this scholarship has had on my experience has been profound, and done so much more for me than just alleviating financial stress. It has provided me with so many opportunities, and has acted as a catalyst towards personal and professional growth. It has shown me that my dedication and hard work are recognised and rewarded, and has given me the boost of confidence I needed to continue this work. 

Studying medicine is inherently demanding, and the workload can be overwhelming. Balancing academic commitments, clinical rotations, and personal life presented a constant challenge. Role models, both within and outside the medical field, played a crucial role in keeping me focused. The financial compensation from the scholarship reduced the need for extensive part-time work, in this way it removed a significant stressor during my studies.

Before receiving the scholarship, my concerns revolved around juggling work alongside studies and maintaining a healthy personal life. Financial constraints posed a formidable barrier to attending UCD, encompassing the costs of education, accommodation, and other associated expenses. The scholarship played a pivotal role in overcoming these barriers, enabling me to pursue becoming a medical professional without compromise.The scholarship not only relieved these worries but also provided the freedom to fully immerse myself in university life. Additionally, I worried about potentially pigeonholing myself in one area and not exploring other potential opportunities for my career. It reinforced for me in particular the importance of entrepreneurial thinking in the field of medicine.

The scholarship funds were instrumental in covering the cost of living. Notably, they supported a self-sought and largely self-funded internship at the Joslin Diabetes Centre  at Harvard University. This unique learning experience of which I set up myself meant working and learning from leading research practitioners on an international platform. Having the financial security of the scholarship meant I could seek out this possibility which has had a long lasting impact on both my personal and professional development.

I also found time to get involved in medical research projects, the UCD volunteer overseas program, and the UCD Medical Society, which enriched my education beyond the classroom. In my third year I was selected for the role of ‘Med Ball Convenor’, to co-ordinate and create two spectacular events for UCD medical students; Med Gala and Med Ball. Organising events of this size and quality provides many challenges and requires resourcefulness, communication and problem-solving skills—skills fostered and amplified by the Liffey Trust Scholarship. I believe these events reward, motivate and incentivise students to work hard academically while promoting collegiality and collaboration, building bridges between doctors for the future. A combination which for me, creates great healthcare professionals.

Every sector needs leaders with vision with a passion for being part of real change, no more so than now. To believe and invest in leaders who want to be part of a revolutionary change is essential for Ireland and worldwide. For me this support is indispensable, creating a practical bridge between a passion for medicine and a commitment to enterprise. This contribution is not just a financial investment; it’s an investment in the future of aspiring professionals. Scholarships open doors for students, allowing them to not only focus on their education but also pursue their dreams and goals for their career. In this way they will be better able to contribute more meaningfully to society.

Looking ahead, I aspire to be a pioneering leader in healthcare, creating initiatives that make a transformative difference. My ongoing study of medicine is a journey to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to address healthcare challenges. Ideas are borne from needs and I’m still assessing the need and developing more skills to create my own vision for my career. The support I’ve received motivates me to pay it forward by actively engaging in initiatives that uplift and empower others on their educational journeys.”