'I feel that this has only brought us closer as classmates and future colleagues'
Get to know some of the students representing the class of 2020 by reciting the Declaration of Geneva at your graduation ceremony. Meet Jenna Blackaby.
What is a highlight from your time at the School of Medicine?
"I have so many highlights from my 6 years at Liverpool School of Medicine however, one of the best has to be my time on elective.
I was lucky enough to travel to Borneo with my best friends. This opportunity enabled me to experience an alternative healthcare system, explore a beautiful country and immerse myself in a new culture."
Were you a member of any societies or sports group?
As a first year I joined Artefacts Performing Arts Society and can whole heartedly say that my time in Liverpool would not have been the same without it.
"I also had the opportunity to be President/Director in my fifth year, and one of my proudest moments is watching the amazing cast, band and crew absolutely smash a triple sell out show of Chicago The Musical and bring my choreography and visions to life! I have also been an active member of the Liverpool Medical School Society (LMSS) since my first year. The LMSS is one of the most welcoming societies I have ever experienced and it is through their socials, dinners and balls that the majority of my closest friends were made.
I have so many fond memories of LMSS events, I was one of the "professional" dancers in the LMSS Charity Strictly Come Dancing which was a highlight of my final year and we collectively raised £4,000 for Claire House Children's Hospice and Wirral Mind.
In addition, I have held numerous roles on the Peermedics committee, including President this year. Peermedics is a peer to peer teaching society that provides invaluable academic support to medical students of all years.
I have been very grateful for Peermedics sessions throughout medical school which have developed my clinical knowledge and teaching skills."
How do you feel you have connected to your classmates over the last couple of months in particular?
"The last couple of months have been a testing time for everyone and I feel that this has only brought us closer as classmates and future colleagues. There certainly seems to be a sense of solidarity and a tremendous amount of support for one another!"
What are your plans for after graduation?
"After graduation, I plan to celebrate graduating from medical school with my friends (at a distance, of course!) and say goodbye to Liverpool with a heavy heart. I am starting FY1 in Leeds in August and I am very excited for a new adventure and exploring a new city."
If you could give yourself some advice as a fresher 5 years ago, what would it be?
"My advice to my fresher self would be to grab every opportunity with both hands and be ready for the best 6 years with the most amazing friends in the most welcoming and fun city!"
Jenna has completed various audits during her time at the School of Medicine. She has also published Multi-Trust Guidance on Management of Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections and Bladder Pain Syndrome which are to be used in Ormskirk General Hospital and Whiston Hospital.