Rachel's story

Rachel is a Medicine student.

Ambitious. Compassionate. Resilient. 

"All I needed was a chance. I’ve always wanted to be a doctor, but with no doctors in my family, I lacked guidance. I was often told to consider other careers, and it felt like no one believed in me.

In sixth form, I arrived at 6.30am every day to revise and made time for extracurriculars like volunteering for my medical application. After weeks of applying, I secured a position. I didn’t know about the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) until the spring of Year 13, but managed to do well, thanks to supportive teachers.

I didn’t have tutoring, private lessons, or connections like many peers, but I made it through.

The Liverpool Scholar’s programme helped me understand university life. After completing the Merseyside Young Medics programme, my final A-level Chemistry paper was leaked, raising the grade boundaries. I ended up with a B despite always being an A* student. Thanks to my reduced offer, my dream stayed alive.

Now in my third year at the University of Liverpool, I’ve had opportunities I once could only dream of. I’ve completed work experience in America, received recognition, and shared my story at faculty forums, graduations, and University events. Speaking about Widening Participation and how all students need is a chance to prove themselves has been a rewarding part of my journey."