I chose to study Cellular and Molecular Medicine because I was passionate about microbes and the wide scope of diseases they can cause.

I’m currently working as a Trauma and Orthopaedic Theatre Assistant. My main role is to act as the surgical circulator, in which I prepare the operating theatre and support the surgical team during operations. I really love the theatre environment; it’s unlike anything I’ve ever done before and in the trauma setting every day is different. I also work in the pre-op and recovery wards, admitting patients before surgery and caring for them once they come out of theatre. Many people feel anxious about going into the operating theatre and part of my role is helping them feel as calm and comfortable as possible. It’s a real privilege to be able to support people when they are at their most vulnerable.

I chose this role because I’m planning to apply to graduate-entry Medicine this year and working in a hospital is excellent preparation for a career as a Doctor. This summer I’m going to work at a hospital in Tanzania, where I hope to see first-hand the effects of tropical diseases such as TB and Malaria. Longer term, I’m thinking about becoming an Army Medic and pursuing a military career in Tropical Medicine or perhaps Orthopaedic Surgery.

To students at college thinking of studying medicine I would say there is no rush; deciding to do medicine is a huge decision to make at such a young age and there is plenty of time to either get some healthcare work experience or study for a sciences undergraduate degree beforehand.

Chloe Howes

Reigate College: 2016-2018

Currently: Trauma and Orthopaedic Theatre Assistant, Brighton & Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust

Higher Education: Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Medical Microbiology & Bacteriology, Bristol University.