Ria Aihie’s journey into medicine is one of dedication, resilience, and an unwavering passion for improving healthcare systems globally. Having recently graduated with a Level 1 Distinction from the University of Southampton, placing her in the top 10% of her cohort, Ria is now pursuing a Master’s in Health and International Development at the London School of Economics. Her achievements thus far include publishing her first scientific paper in the prestigious Current Osteoporosis Reports, volunteering in resource-constrained hospitals in Tanzania, and inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals through mentorship and public speaking.

Recognised for her excellence, Ria was nominated for Society Member of the Year at the University of Southampton’s Student Experience Awards. Despite her many accolades, she remains committed to growth, seeing each experience as part of a larger journey to become a well-rounded medical professional and global health advocate. Her story offers invaluable insights and inspiration for aspiring medical students looking to follow in her footsteps.

Cultivating a Dream: From Lagos to the UK

Ria’s love for science began during her childhood in Lagos, where she was drawn to understanding the intricate workings of the human body. Her transition to the UK in Year 8 marked a pivotal moment in her journey. Attending an all-girls Catholic school in Surrey, Ria quickly realised that excelling in medicine would require both academic excellence and strategic preparation.

“Science has always been my sanctuary. Chemistry and Biology weren’t just subjects—they were passageways to understanding the intricate mechanisms of human life,” she reflects.

Her passion for science evolved into a structured plan to stand out in a competitive field. By seeking opportunities beyond academics, Ria laid the groundwork for her future success.

The Importance of Real-World Experience

For Ria, gaining hands-on experience was crucial to her development as a future doctor. She understood that real-world exposure would not only strengthen her medical school applications but also provide invaluable insights into the profession itself.

Her first taste of clinical work came through a placement at a hospital in Lagos, where she observed patient care in a bustling environment. This was followed by another placement in a London hospital, giving her a comparative perspective on healthcare delivery in two distinct settings.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ria adapted by participating in virtual medical work experience programmes. These opportunities allowed her to continue building her knowledge and skills despite global restrictions.

But it was her time in Tanzania that truly deepened her understanding of healthcare’s global challenges. During a medical volunteering programme at Mt. Meru Regional Referral Hospital, Ria worked in the maternity department, witnessing over 10 births, assisting in Caesarean sections, and scrubbing into her first surgery to deliver a healthy baby boy.

“It was such a privilege—a great learning opportunity and something I’ve dreamt of doing since I was six years old,” she shares.

For aspiring medical students, Ria stresses the importance of seeking diverse experiences.

“In a competitive landscape like medicine, experience speaks louder than grades. Gaining practical exposure showed me the real challenges of healthcare and prepared me for what lies ahead.”

Her advice to students is clear: step out of your comfort zone and embrace every opportunity to learn. Whether it’s volunteering, shadowing professionals, or taking on placements abroad, these experiences will shape your understanding of the field and strengthen your passion for it.

Tackling the Challenges of Medical School Applications

Applying to medical school in the UK is a rigorous process, requiring careful planning and perseverance. For Ria, this meant navigating the intricacies of UCAS applications, preparing for entrance exams like the UCAT and BMAT, and tailoring her personal statement to highlight her unique experiences.

“The medical school application process is complex, particularly for international students. It demands thorough research and preparation,” she explains.

Ria applied to four medical schools, attended two interviews, and ultimately received an offer after her hard work and resilience. Her perseverance in the face of rejections shows the importance of resilience in pursuing a career in medicine. Never be discouraged by failure, and always pick yourself up and try again.

A Global Perspective: Combining Medicine with Policy

While clinical medicine remains at the heart of Ria’s aspirations, she is equally passionate about addressing healthcare challenges on a systemic level. Currently pursuing her Master’s at LSE, she is focused on health policy and development, with the goal of creating sustainable healthcare systems in developing countries, particularly in Nigeria.

“My hope is to transfer my expertise to Nigeria one day, focusing on health development and policy to create sustainable change,” she shares.

Her experiences in Tanzania and her ongoing studies at LSE highlight the importance of viewing medicine through a global lens. By combining her clinical knowledge with an understanding of health systems and policy, Ria is preparing to make an impact that extends beyond individual patient care.

Academic Excellence and a Commitment to Growth

Ria’s dedication to her studies has been reflected in her numerous achievements. Graduating with a Level 1 Distinction from Southampton, she excelled academically while also balancing research and extracurricular activities. One of her proudest accomplishments was co-authoring her first scientific publication, exploring skeletal health in the early years of life. This milestone, achieved before the end of her second year of medical school, speaks to her drive and commitment.

“It has been a goal of mine to get published whilst in medical school, and I’m so grateful to have achieved this so early,” Ria says.

Ria’s recognition as a Society Member of the Year nominee further demonstrates her ability to contribute meaningfully to the student community, balancing academics with leadership and service.

Advice for Aspiring Medical Students

For students dreaming of a career in medicine, Ria offers practical and heartfelt advice:

1. Be Strategic: “Choose your A-level subjects carefully and tailor your application to highlight your unique strengths and experiences.”
2. Seek Real-World Experience: “Volunteering, shadowing, and placements give you invaluable insights into the profession and set you apart as an applicant.”
3. Prepare for Rejections: “The process is competitive, and not everything will go as planned. Resilience is key to overcoming setbacks.”
4. Broaden Your Perspective: “Medicine isn’t just about treating individuals—it’s about understanding and improving healthcare systems as a whole.”
5. Stay Passionate: “Remember why you chose this path. Your passion will carry you through the challenges.”

Ria’s Key Takeaways

Ria’s journey is a powerful reminder that success in medicine requires more than academic excellence. It demands resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace every opportunity to learn and grow. From volunteering in hospitals to publishing groundbreaking research, Ria has shown that each step, no matter how small, contributes to the larger picture of aspiring to become a well-rounded medical professional.

“The medical profession awaits not just skilled practitioners but compassionate individuals ready to transform healthcare landscapes, one patient and one innovation at a time,” Ria concludes.

Her story thus far is a testament to the power of perseverance and the value of taking a holistic approach to medicine. While her journey is far from over, her experiences so far provide inspiration and guidance for aspiring medical students. For Ria, every milestone is a stepping stone toward her ultimate goal: making a lasting impact on global healthcare systems. Her journey continues, and her future is undoubtedly bright.