From Hong Kong to Cumbria: Bryan’s journey to becoming an A&E doctor

Final year student Bryan shares how the University of Lancashire’s supportive community and unique opportunities have shaped his path towards emergency medicine.

When Bryan Lee first arrived in the UK from Hong Kong in 2014, he embraced a British education. First achieving his GCSEs and A Levels in Norwich, he then moved onto an undergraduate Biomedical Sciences degree in Cardiff. Fast forward to today, Bryan is in his final year of the MBBS programme at the University of Lancashire, preparing to graduate as a doctor. 

"Ever since year one, I knew this is what I wanted to do."

— Bryan Lee - University of Lancashire MBBS Student

While medicine is demanding, Bryan has found the challenge to be rewarding: “It’s a nice feeling to know that in a few months I’ll be graduating and doing what I want for the rest of my life.”

Bryan’s journey to the University of Lancashire was almost accidental. Initially, he applied to other universities, but when a friend mentioned the University of Lancashire’s MBBS programme just a week before the UCAS deadline, he knew he had to apply. After researching the university, Bryan was drawn to its international community and dynamic approach to teaching. “The University of Lancashire are very dynamic when listening to student feedback which really appealed to me.”

Bryan is now living and studying at the Westlakes Campus, a highlight of his time at the University. Bryan loves the outdoors and hiking, so the location suits him perfectly. While the campus is small and remote, he sees this as an advantage, with smaller teaching groups and closer relationships with staff. “The relationships you build with your tutors really helps you get through the stress of exams”

"The opportunities I’ve had at the University, I would never have got anywhere else."

— Bryan Lee - University of Lancashire MBBS Student

One of Bryan’s favourite things about the University of Lancashire is the range of opportunities beyond the classroom. From research projects in women’s health and hospital care to roles as a student ambassador, Bryan has embraced every chance to progress his academic and professional knowledge. “Over the past five years I’ve been doing research with my supervisor, something that I never thought I’d be doing’’. Working on projects from breast screening barriers to hospital mattress design, and even developing new bra prototypes, Bryan has jumped at every opportunity to get involved.

Bryan’s career plans have evolved throughout his time at the University of Lancashire. Initially set on dermatology, he discovered his passion for emergency medicine during placements. “With emergency medicine you get to see everything. I like the idea of treating someone when they first present themselves at the hospital.” As graduation approaches, Bryan hopes to stay in the UK, ideally in Carlisle or Whitehaven, areas he has grown to love during placements.

"I'd tell future students about the community. There are so many international students, it’s a lot easier to adapt to the new environment"

— Bryan Lee - University of Lancashire MBBS Student

For international students, Bryan highlights the University of Lancashire’s welcoming environment. “When you first come to the UK, it can be very scary, but Welcome Week helps you meet people, and because many of us are international, we share similar experiences.” He also joined societies, including the Medical Society, Tennis, and Swimming, which gave him a chance to connect beyond medicine.

Bryan sums up his experience as enjoyable and friendly. From academics and research to extracurricular activities and friendships, the University of Lancashire has helped him grow personally and professionally. “The University really helped me mature and gave me a positive atmosphere throughout my time here.”