Krish. Made Different

Why I chose Malta

Hi, I’m Krish, and I’m in my fourth year of medicine at Queen Mary’s Malta campus. For me, it’s been a journey of growth – academically, personally, and professionally.

I grew up in London and Saudi Arabia, then went to boarding school in Cheltenham. Medicine was always my goal, and when I found out about Queen Mary, Malta, it really stood out. The idea of studying medicine in a smaller, close-knit environment (and on an island!) really appealed to me. Looking back now, I’m so grateful I made this decision. 

A purpose-built campus

What I like most about the Malta campus is that it’s all focused on medicine. Everything is in one building – the lecture theatres, anatomy centre, clinical skills labs, library, and study spaces. You’re surrounded by people doing the same course, and it makes it easy to feel part of a community. There will always be someone for you to have a chat with.

The anatomy centre was one of the highlights in my first two years. Having access to cadavers made such a difference – it brought everything we were learning in lectures into practice, you get a real feel for the human body. And the clinical skills labs were just as valuable. Before we even stepped foot in a hospital, we’d already practiced our bedside manner, examinations, and bloods in a safe environment. That gave me the confidence to go into placements and get involved straight away.

A supportive community

Because everyone here studies medicine, it’s a very supportive place. The staff know you personally, and you can always go to students in the years above for advice. I always say, you’re not a number, you’re a name on this campus. I’m part of the buddy system now, which pairs older students with new ones, and it’s something I really value. I remember how helpful it was when I first arrived, and now I get to give back.

There are also lots of societies and opportunities outside of studying. I’ve been involved in the Teddy Bear Hospital project, which teaches local children about health through fun activities. Things like that help you feel connected to the wider community, not just the campus.

Placements and patients

The clinical years are when everything comes together. In the mornings, I’m usually on placement at the hospital with consultants – shadowing, taking patient histories, taking blood, doing examinations, even practising my Maltese when communicating with elderly patients! In the afternoons, we have teaching sessions or time for self-study, so you can go back over what you’ve seen on the wards.

The variety of placements is great – I’ve been in cardiology, geriatrics, and more. Consultants are always encouraging us to be proactive. The more you get involved, the more you learn. It feels meaningful, like you’re out there making a difference.

Life in Malta

Living in Malta has been an awesome experience. They say it’s sunny here 300 days of the year, and the weather and the lifestyle definitely help with wellbeing – after a long day, being able to go for a swim or just sit by the sea is something I really appreciate. Placements in Gozo are also a unique part of the course. It’s quieter there, and you really get to know the patients and staff. It feels like a very focused environment for learning.

Looking ahead

As I get closer to finishing my degree, I feel well prepared for the future. The course has given me the knowledge and clinical experience I need, but also independence, resilience, and adaptability.

For anyone thinking about medicine, I’d say that Queen Mary Malta offers something special. This isn’t a conventional university experience. You get a world-class education in a setting that’s supportive and unique – there’s an adventure there to be had. Now I can look back and say ‘wow, I’ve embraced a new culture, a new language, a new country.’ It’s definitely made me who I am today.