Aspiring young doctor finds path to success through a Coleg Gwent Access to Medicine Course

Overcoming financial struggles, academic setbacks, and self-doubt

Overcoming financial struggles, academic setbacks, and self-doubt, Miriam, a determined young mother of two, found a second chance at her dream career in medicine through Coleg Gwent’s Access to Medicine course.

Today she is studying Medical Sciences BSc (Hons) at Cardiff University – a feeder course for the undergraduate entry medicine degree.

Delivered in partnership with Agored Cymru and Cardiff Medical School, the access course is an intensive programme of study that includes a focus on a range of subject areas that are essential preparation for progression to a medical degree.

The course is more than just a qualification—it’s a lifeline for those who thought a career in medicine was out of reach. Whether due to financial struggles, past academic difficulties, or lack of guidance, this programme provides tailored support, expert teaching, and opportunities for guaranteed university interviews.

Miriam said: “I first attended college at 18 and ended up leaving without A levels due to an undiagnosed neuro-divergence, and a belief that I was not good enough.

“Years later, when I saw the Access to Medicine course on offer at Coleg Gwent, I knew it was the exact course I was looking for. I wanted to work towards a career as a doctor in the NHS, and this course gave me a chance to get there and even the possibility of guaranteed interviews with top universities.”

For Miriam, the course not only equipped her with the academic preparation needed to progress in her career, but it also restored her confidence and belief in her abilities.

“It was such a positive experience returning to college as a mature learner, especially after my A-levels didn’t go as planned. I’ve never felt more confident or capable, and I owe much of that to the incredible lecturers who helped me rediscover my spark.

“Balancing studies and parenthood was no easy feat—I often found myself finishing coursework on the dance studio floor while my daughter was in class. But every late night and sacrificed weekend brought me one step closer to my dream.

“I completed the Access to Medicine course in 2024, leaving with the equivalent of an AAB, which is worlds apart from the young girl who struggled to sit through a lesson let alone an exam 12 years ago.

“I’m so proud of myself for completing the course and being accepted into university to pursue my passion of becoming a doctor. I’m currently studying full-time, while balancing a very busy home life with two young children.

“I know that to get to where I want to be, I will be studying for the next seven years, but a career in medicine is a lifelong commitment and in doing this, I’m exceeding my wildest dreams. I’m so grateful to Coleg Gwent for setting me up with the academic and scientific skills I will carry throughout my education and subsequent career. But most of all, for helping me realise I could achieve anything.

Coleg Gwent’s Access to Medicine course provides a pathway to individuals who might not otherwise have had the chance to pursue their dreams of a medical career. The nine-month preparatory course specifically prepares students for degree courses such as Medicine and Dentistry and medical science related degrees.

Students will cover a range of academic content units including biology, chemistry and physiology along with a range of units designed to improve students’ academic skills.

Dr. Catherine Garland, Access to Medicine lecturer at Coleg Gwent, commented: “We are immensely proud of what Miriam has achieved. Our Access to Medicine course was designed to break down barriers and open doors for aspiring medical professionals, and Miriam’s success story is a testament to the impact of this initiative. We are committed to supporting our students every step of the way, and we look forward to seeing many more success stories in the future.”

For Miriam and many others, it’s the first step toward a brighter future in the medical field.

If you’ve ever dreamed of a career in medicine but thought it was impossible, the Access to Medicine course could be your gateway to success.