I really love this time of year: seeing familiar faces returning ready to explore the next stage of their journey, as a ‘doctor in waiting’ and welcoming those who join us for the first time, from near or far.
This year, it is especially lovely to see both staff and students beginning to make good use of the new facilities in Cedar House. There are some more lovely things to arrive over the next couple of months, but I’ll wait for you to find them, rather than spoil the surprise!
Our societies are also getting under way with the new season. It was great to catch up briefly with many of you over Welcome week and I look forward to hearing more of your plans, and how I and other staff can be involved with other interesting events this year.
The new School merchandise for sale at our Welcome event also proved popular, especially the School hoodie! I am looking forward to getting more wear out of mine as the weather changes for the autumn. The introduction of the School products has been a direct response to your requests, and we are hoping to make them available for purchase throughout the year. We will keep you informed as soon as this is available.
It’s not easy being in a completely different country to study (even if the Liverpool taxi drivers won’t take my Scottish money, I’m not meaning another UK/I zone!). I enjoyed the chance to catch up with the International students who were able to join me for tea this week. It was lovely to exchange ideas and to hear about the welcome that is special to Liverpool.
I expect the biggest change this year will actually be in you - shaped by new friendships, new experiences and new learning. It is such a breath-holding moment to watch the final transition, when you stand as graduates, to commit to the profession with the recital of the Geneva declaration. Yet, it is also a real privilege to observe the commitment you have already made, shining through your achievements and activities, on each stage of your journey.
I wish you all the very best with this year and hope you can enjoy it to the full.
Professor Hazel Scott MBChB MD FRCP PFHEA
Dean of the School of Medicine