Vanshika Chundru

Choosing what to study after school can feel like one of the biggest decisions of your life. For me, I always knew I wanted a career where I could make a real difference to people’s lives. Medicine stood out because it combines science, problem-solving, and human connection in a way no other field quite does.

When it came to choosing where to study, RCSI immediately stood out to me. The sense of community here is very real. You are surrounded by people from all over the world who share the same passion for medicine. I also loved that from the very first year, we got to learn in small groups, work through cases together, and even practice some basic clinical skills. It gave me a taste of what it means to think like a doctor, not just memorise facts.

Looking back, what helped me most in making my decision was taking time to reflect on my own strengths and values. My advice for anyone still deciding is to think about what excites you, what motivates you on tough days, and where you can see yourself making an impact. When those things align, the right choice feels a lot clearer. For me, that choice was medicine at RCSI, and so far it has been one of the best decisions I’ve made.

My favourite part of the programme so far has definitely been anatomy and case-based learning sessions! Spending time in the anatomy room has been such a unique experience, it really helps bring the material to life and makes the theory easier to understand. I’ve also loved the case discussions, since they show how all the different subjects connect and how what we’re learning will apply to real patients in the future. Together, they’ve made studying medicine feel engaging and exciting!

My fondest memories so far have been the study sessions with friends, especially during exam season. Although it was super hectic, we’d all put our heads together for the difficult topics and get it done, but what made it really special were all the little jokes, snack breaks, and practising for OSCE’s. Those moments turned long, stressful days into fun, memorable experiences and really helped us bond. It’s where I’ve made some of my closest friendships at RCSI, and those memories will always make me smile.

In my spare time, I love exploring Dublin’s cafés. There’s just something about finding a nice cosy, hidden spot to grab a quick coffee or snack, whether it's tucked down a quiet street in Dublin or in the bustling city centre. It’s the perfect way to relax and catch up with friends while also soaking in the peaceful atmosphere!

One piece of advice I’d give to new students coming to RCSI is to make the most of the community around you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, join study groups, or chat with peers and staff. Everyone is really supportive. Building connections early not only helps with learning but also makes the experience more fun and memorable. Oh, and definitely take some time to explore Dublin too. It’s a great way to balance study with new experiences!

I’m still figuring out which specialty to pursue, but I’m really drawn to both paediatrics and surgery. I’ve always loved working with kids and supporting them and their families because it feels so rewarding to make a difference from a young age. Surgery also appeals to me because I enjoy hands-on work and the challenge of solving problems in a fast-paced setting. Ideally, I’d love a career that combines the two so I could work closely with children while also being involved in technical, practical care. It feels like the most exciting and fulfilling way to use the skills I’m learning now, but I can’t wait for rotations to get a feel of every specialty!