Student Spotlights pass the mic to our student doctors, to hear their take on their School experience and shine a light on a particular role, team or pathway through the School of Medicine.
A Biomedical Science and Public Health graduate, Ashlee Lambe joined us in September, taking a place on the School’s newly designed Graduate Entry Programme.
Introduce yourself: Where are you from? What did you study before Medicine?
I’m originally from Bermuda, an island I am incredibly proud to call home. Before pursuing Medicine, I studied Biomedical Science in Canada and later completed a Masters in Public Health at the University of Nottingham. Both experiences shaped my perspective on health and provided me with a strong foundation for understanding the intersections of science, healthcare, and public policy.
What inspired you to pursue a career in Medicine?
In my last year of high school my mother was unexpectedly diagnosed with a rare bleeding disorder which could not be managed in Bermuda. At that time, we were unsure if she was going to be able to make it past this challenge and it was a very testing time for my family. I am forever grateful to the dedicated healthcare workers at the overseas hospital and in Bermuda for not giving up on her when things were looking bleak.
As I reflected on this experience, I realized that I wanted to pursue a career where I was able to make a difference in the lives of other people.
Pursuing medicine felt like the natural next step to combine my passion for science and my dedication to helping others.
What was it that brought you to Liverpool?
Liverpool’s reputation for offering diverse placements and hands-on clinical experiences really stood out to me. Aintree University Hospital was also one of the few teaching hospitals that has a helipad for complex trauma cases. The city is lively and welcoming, and the medical programme offered the variety I was looking for to help me grow both academically and professionally.
How have you settled in this term? What have been your biggest highlights so far?
Settling in has been an exciting journey! The programme has been challenging but rewarding, and I’ve appreciated the support from both my peers and the faculty. One of the biggest highlights for me has been the HARC sessions, where we dive into anatomy in a hands-on way.
I’ve always been fascinated by anatomy, and being in the lab is one of my favourite parts of the course. It’s a space where my curiosity thrives, and I’m constantly inspired to learn more about the human body.
What interests and hobbies do you enjoy outside of Medicine?
Outside of Medicine, dance has always been a significant part of my life. I used to teach dance back in Bermuda and I am classically trained through the Royal Academy of Dance, and it remains a passion that I carry with me. It’s something I turn to whenever I want to feel grounded or reconnect with my creative side. I currently want to learn partnered dances (salsa, bachata, kizomba) so if anyone has any recommendations on where to learn, please let me know!
I also love reading and am part of a book club. I am a big fan of fantasy novels, and I am exploring the world of sci-fi. I have just finished a classic “We” by Yevgeny Zamyatin, which I recommend to anyone who enjoys dystopian novels.
What are you most looking forward to this academic year, and in future years?
I’m most excited about the variety of placements I’ll get to experience. Each one offers a new perspective and an opportunity to deepen my understanding of patient care.
Looking ahead, I’m eager to develop my clinical skills further and explore how public health and medicine intersect in real-world practice.
It’s thrilling to think about the impact I could have in both individual and community health.
What advice would you have for other graduates interested in taking up Medicine?
My advice is simple: don’t hesitate to take that first step. Whether you’re coming from another field or have been out of academia for a while, it’s never too late to start your journey in Medicine. The transition can feel daunting, especially if you’ve been working or are comparing yourself to others but remember that everyone’s path is unique.
Focus on your own goals, embrace the process, and trust that your experiences, whatever they are, add value to the field.
Follow your passions, be persistent, and take it one step at a time.
Discover more
Keen to follow in Ashlee’s footsteps? Check out the Graduate Entry option on our Study With Us web area.
Get in touch with mednews@liverpool.ac.uk if you are interested in stepping into the Student Spotlight or would like to nominate a student or group to do so.