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In Focus - Fu Wasunna

Fu Wasunna

Year of Study: Year 2

Fu Wasunna tells us about how she came to be a BSMS student, her top tips for the UCAT, and how she is making the most of her time at university.

What made you want to study Medicine?

My answer is pretty basic, but I've always loved biology (not the plant stuff) while disliking the idea of being in a lab all day. I enjoy working with people and applying what I learn in biology to real life. I also wanted a career where each day would be different. I've always liked structure, and looking back at the decision-making process, I'm surprised I made such a big life choice at such a young age. I really empathise with people who weren't as certain as I was—quite understandably—because it's such a significant decision that needs to be tailored to who you are as a person.

What made you want to study at BSMS?

To be perfectly honest, it wasn't my first choice—I was aiming for other BMAT universities. But I applied anyway because I love Brighton, and my Nana lives here. I’m so glad I ended up at BSMS, though. It truly is an excellent medical school that emphasises doctor-patient relationships and has fantastic teachers. I remember on my first day, the Dean said, 'You've made it. You're no longer competing; we're just trying to make you the best doctor you can be.' It was so freeing!

What are your top tips for the UCAT?

Start early – do the work, and be willing to give up your Y12 summer. Prioritise it over anything on your application; everything is important, but the UCAT is what opens the most doors. At the same time, it’s not that deep if your score is not what you want – remember, you can work around it. Learn the shortcuts on the keyboard and the annoying calc too.

Any tips for interviews?

I know it’s super boring but be yourself! Give them a taste of who you are as a person. At the end of the day, they are not looking for robots who know the answers, they are looking for people whose personalities are suited to medicine. Do not be afraid of getting things wrong – some interviewers will tell you that’s not what they were looking for but only so you can explain your thought process which is what they are more interested in. Don’t let one bad station throw you off – the good thing about MMIs (Multiple Mini Interviews) is that a totally new person will meet you at the next station, so it’s still all to play for.

BACKGROUND IMAGE FOR PANEL

Any advice for managing the transition to university?

Make yourself as busy as possible in the first term. Try everything and anything! Push yourself out of your comfort zone. Then once you are settled you can pick and choose what you want to keep doing. Also friendship takes timeeeeeeee and don’t compare your school relationships to new ones.

Are you involved in any sports or societies?

Yes! I love sport. I took up Sussex Netball, where I play for the 2s which is quite competitive. I also play for BSMS netball which is much more chilled and I love BSMS hockey as well. I think it’s really cool how we get medic only sport/societies which is much more friendly and do-able! I am also involved in a local church in Brighton and also Sussex Christian Union, which are such great communities.

How have you managed to balance your time as you do so many extra curricular activities?

I think working little and often is what has helped me stay on task. I also think prioritise the things that are really important. So for me, medical school is not about beating all my classmates and working myself to death but having a good balance. So doing loads of sport really helps. Also, I have decided that I will probably not do Sussex sport this year and focus on BSMS sport due to the time commitment and that’s absolutely fine. As long as I feel happy, am getting out, moving and laughing. That’s what I want out of uni.

What has been your BSMS highlight?

Definitely the people I have met along the way. I have really enjoyed getting to know people from so many different backgrounds and cultures.