Dr Ria Smith

Ria’s journey

After leaving NGHS I moved to London and studied at Imperial College London (2011-2017) to complete my medical degree (MBBS) and an intercalation in Neuroscience and Mental Health (BSc 2:1). I then went on to do two years of Foundation Training in London (2017-2019) and have now relocated to sunny Devon to complete my Internal Medical Training in North Devon (2019-present) prior to applying for further speciality training. I hope this will be in Gastroenterology and Respiratory.

During my time as a Foundation Doctor in London, I took part in and ran teaching programmes for King’s College London medical students (a Practical skills course and Virtual on Call). I was awarded a Foundation Merit Award in Teaching Excellence from South Thames Foundation School, and a Commendation for Teaching Excellence from the KCL Dean of Medical Education. During my time in North Devon I have completed a PGCert in Clinical Education (with distinction and Dean’s commendation) at Exeter University. I have also run a simulated on call teaching programme for Exeter University medical students and next year I will be running a mandatory teaching programme for doctors in my workplace.

Ria tells us about her time at NGHS

Studying Medicine is not an easy path to take; it requires commitment, motivation and organisation. Even in my day-to-day job as a doctor, I learn new things every day and I am still working towards additional qualifications. Without the strong work ethic I learned at NGHS, I don’t believe I would be where I am today. This work ethic was instilled with the help of the wonderful teachers – a special thanks to Mrs Parkin, Dr Critchley and Mrs Howard for nurturing my love for science!

During my time at NGHS, we had the opportunity to take part in activities such as Duke of Edinburgh and the Young Enterprise scheme. Whilst of course I enjoyed these activities at the time, I can now appreciate how they also helped to develop my communication and leadership skills which are vital for any healthcare professional!

The high quality education I received at NGHS has motivated me to take an interest in medical education throughout university, and in my workplace through gaining additional qualifications in clinical education and running my own teaching programmes.

And any words of wisdom for the next generation of NGHS girls?

A piece of advice I would like to pass onto today’s younger generation of girls is the importance of having ‘something’ outside of academia and work. Your ’something’ could be playing tennis, painting, gardening or even just spending quality time with friends and family. In today’s hectic and sometimes chaotic society, always remember to take time for yourself!