This is a Radio Cherwell original podcast

Hosted by: Aleksandra Jedinska

Listen Live: radiocherwell.com

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About this episode of Science & Beyond

In this episode, we meet Riyanshi, a first-year medical student at the University of Manchester, who shares a vivid snapshot of life at medical school — from navigating weekly case-based learning to practising consultation skills with professional actors.

We explore how the course blends theory and clinical preparation from day one, with modules in physiology and pharmacology alongside anatomy taught through full-body dissections — a surreal yet deeply meaningful experience, marked by the school’s reflective ‘Service of Thanksgiving’ to honour donors.

Riyanshi’s favourite topic, asthma, is personal — as someone who lives with the condition, learning about its pathophysiology has made the science come alive. We also dive into the pharmacology of hypertension, where she breaks down the mechanisms behind first-line treatments like amlodipine, which reduces stroke volume by decreasing cardiac contractility, and Ramipril, an ACE inhibitor that lowers blood volume through diuresis.

Beyond the classroom, we look at the journey ahead: from medical licensing exams to life as a junior doctor. Riyanshi also shares what makes Manchester special — from its industrial heritage to the symbolic worker bee seen across the city. This episode is a grounded and inspiring look at the making of a future doctor.