Medicine graduate talks about his journey to becoming a Doctor

Medicine (MBBS) graduate, Saif Ansari, is following his childhood dream and working as a Junior Doctor in the NHS after studying Medicine at the University of Central Lancashire.

From a young age, Saif wanted to study medicine after being inspired by his grandfather and father who made a difference to people’s lives through their work.

International graduate, Saif, chose to study the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) at the University of Central Lancashire due to the teaching methods used on the course. Talking about his degree choice, Saif said: “UCLan offered a mix of small group and peer-teaching based education. I really enjoyed learning this way. Additionally, the mix of international and UK students was important to me as it helped me settle in quite easily. Preston being a cultural hub and close to all the major cities in the UK, made daily living and commutes extremely easy."

After graduation, Saif completed a Foundation Programme at Whiston Hospital, part of the St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, and then moved to Bolton NHS Foundation Trust to work as a Core Surgical Trainee, Orthopaedic Theme. He's now training as a Speciality Trainee Registrar in Trauma and Orthopaedics. 

Saif Ansari, MBBS graduate
Saif Ansari, MBBS graduate

"I always tell people at my work that UCLan has shaped the clinician inside of me. Some of the skills I have learnt through my years at University are vital to my day-to-day practice."

Saif Ansari, MBBS graduate

As part of his role as a Junior Doctor, Saif was responsible for daily ward jobs and ensuring patient safety. He was also responsible for on-call patient admissions and helping junior colleagues. His current role specialises in trauma and orthopaedics and alongside this, Saif has been developing his portfolio in surgical training.

Talking about how his degree experience has had a positive impact on his career, Saif said: “I always tell people at my work that UCLan has shaped the clinician inside of me. Some of the skills I have learnt through my years at University are vital to my day-to-day practice. Making clinical decisions and holistically treating patients is a critical aspect of medicine which I have learnt from the University.”

Saif has had four papers published alongside consultants from the Royal Blackburn hospital, a University of Central Lancashire teaching hospital.

Reflecting on his lasting memories at University, Saif said: “Meeting my best friends at University and pulling all-nighters with them, pre-exams, are some of my lasting memories.”

When asked about what advice he would give to those wanting to do something similar, Saif said: “I would say that hard work and determination do pay off. Just keep going and work towards your goal and you will achieve it.”

Saif's story is an example of how men can achieve fulfilling careers in caring roles and supports our #MenDoCare campaign, which aims to raise awareness of the important roles men play in health and care professions.