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5 Books All Aspiring Medical Students Should Read

Medical students are the unsung heroes of many healthcare industries around the world. They are fresh eyes and new ideas in an ever-challenging world of medicine. Whether in developing countries or developed, the experiences of these inspirational individuals make for some incredible reading. You may laugh, cry or some combination of the two. But if you want to become a medical professional, here are five top picks to keep you entertained on the journey.

Your Life In My Hands – Rachel Clarke

Formerly a television journalist, Briton Rachel Clarke decided to switch careers aged 29. For many doctors, medicine has been their only career. But for Clarke, she had thought that the experiences she had on the ground as a journalist would make another role pale in comparison. Hours “under fire in Congo’s killing fields”? They’d make medicine seem a walk in the park, right? Wrong. From the start of her engaging and charming book she makes it clear that the real challenges she has faced began in the wards of her training hospital.

Written with inimitable candidness, her honesty jumps off the page. You can’t help but like the narrator, and get drawn in to the story of her journey. From conversations with Prime Ministers about ‘water closets’ to letters to the national press decrying the state of affairs in the NHS that prompted national protests, the links between her current and past careers is undeniable. Perhaps because of this her voice is strong, her passion infectious and her perspective refreshing.

A must-read memoir for those wanting to switch up the monotony of the day job for the challenge of a lifetime: working in medicine.

The Real Doctor Will See You Now – Matt McCarthy

Skipping across the pond, Matt McCarthy‘s first year of med school is underlined with humour from the outset. His first line: “It started with a banana peel.” shows his bemusement at some of the experiences he had when starting out at Columbia University Medical Centre, New York.

He details his supportive relationships with his second-year adviser Baio, the trials and tribulations of night shifts and the fear associated with being ‘on call’. More importantly, though, he talks about what he has learned. Not from his university studies or even his supervisors…from the patients he cares for. Of course, like all of the books recommended here, there is a disclaimer at the start. It’s along the lines that whilst the stories are based upon clinical experience, in order to maintain the integrity of the Hippocratic oath sworn by doctors around the world, details have been changed to anonymise patients’ information. However, there is a reality to the words McCarthy writes, and a tenderness without saccharine sweetness in the manner in which he reveres his charges. In particular, the relationship with Benny who had taken up residence in the hospital waiting for a heart transplant is a pull on the heart-strings.

Definitely worth a read, and good for raising aspirations too – with his humble beginnings Matt is now an associate professor in medicine as well as serving on the Ethics Committee at a top NY hospital.

When Breath Becomes Air – Paul Kalanithi

The topic of this tome – death – is one that makes many uncomfortable. It is, however, a daily colleague of medical staff. As someone with a conflicted relationship with medicine – a tone of disappointment in an absent father who was brilliant as a physician and lacking in consistency as a parent runs throughout this book – Kalanithi introduces himself as someone who wanted to be a writer rather than a doctor from an early age. This would clearly have been a great career path, evidenced by his careful craftsmanship as his challenging yet compassionate tale unfolds.

Paul, it turns out, has passed away and this book is his last foray into the world: an examination of his experiences from both sides of the table as a neurosurgeon and a cancer patient. In his own words, “Life isn’t about avoiding suffering.” By turns delighting and devastating, this tale speaks of humanity and the search for knowledge and joy regardless of an insurmountable illness.

Harsh but true, doctors must grow used to death. What better way to learn than through the words of one who’s experienced both?

This is Going to Hurt: Secret Diaries of a Junior Doctor – Adam Kay

Adam Kay is no longer a doctor. After many expensive years of training, and eye-watering experiences to last a lifetime, he hung up his stethoscope in 2010. What remains of his medical career are an assortment of tidbits and anecdotes hastily scribbled down during his time as a Junior Doctor working for the NHS.

A rallying cry for his comrades who were still under the cosh from political attacks, Kay sees himself as a counterbalance to the negativity published about the health service. From the absurd to the sublime, this book beggars belief and will leave you with no questions where the phrase, “It takes all sorts to make the world go round.” comes from.

Witty footnotes and translations of jargon mean that Kay’s book is informative as well as compelling. Contrasts of days filled with filing and night shifts that would make your hair curl (or straight-up fall out) are intertwined. His conclusion? A very heavily worded letter to the Secretary of State for Health that, if you’ve made it thus far, you’ll be vehemently agreeing with and echoing with your own shortly after. See him read from his book here.

Life as a Medical Student: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly: A dose of reality from 30 medical students – Sihame Benmira

Catchy title, but it does exactly what it says on the tin. This book is aimed at the multitude of young people who know they want to become medical doctors but have little understanding of what the training entails. The provenance of many medical tomes is clear through the authors’ prominence – and yet, who better to hear from than those who have walked the path before you?

Benmira successfully tracks the changing emotions and experiences of those pursuing long years of study to achieve that coveted title: Doctor ____. The chapters are organised for first to fifth years, and one for those who are intercalating in a specified area. Sleepless nights and high workloads are common themes, but this is a gem for people requiring a dose of reality…or reassurance that it’s not just you going through it!

University Accommodation Guide

Going to university is one of the most exciting things you can do as a young adult. Whether you’re moving country, city or simply just moving out of your parents’ house, you’ll be sure to love your newfound freedom and independence. But with so many different types of university accommodation to choose from, how do you know what’s right for you? Should you choose an en-suite, shared kitchen or catered halls? It all comes down to personal opinion, but to help you decide we’ve created this university accommodation guide.

Things to consider when making your decision:

  • Location – how far do you want to live from your university or college? Do you want to live in a town/city or a more suburban/rural setting? Where do other students at your university live?
  • Housemates – Who do you live with? Do you want to live in a shared house, with one other person or on your own? Do you have any friends you can live with, or do you want to meet new people and join a new house share?
  • Rent and Bills – What can you afford to pay for your rent and bills? What’s your budget? Are your bills included in the cost of your accommodation? Will you be able to get a reduction on your rent and bills for being a student or single occupant?
  • Social life – What is there to do at your university? How far do you want to be from your local shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, beach, train station etc? Do you have any sports clubs or hobbies that you want to live close to?
  • Support – What support is there on offer at your university? Is there a housing office that can help you to make a decision, or find the right type of accommodation?

University Halls of Residence:

Most universities will try and house their first-year students in university-owned accommodation. This is to help most students make friends and get settled at the university, without having to travel too far to classes. The size and quality of university-owned accommodation varies for each university, but you will usually be allocated a room in a shared flat with other students. You may have the option to choose an en-suite bathroom or a shared bathroom. You may have the option to choose catered halls, or non-catered if you want your own kitchen facilities.

Pros:

  • Bills are usually included
  • Close to class (usually on campus)
  • Living with people in the same boat as you
  • More sociable/party scene
  • Lots of options for different prices/budgets

Cons:

  • Party culture (which is great for some, but not for others)
  • Quality can vary
  • Living with strangers

Private Halls of Residence/Private Halls/Communal Blocks:

Private halls are not owned by the university but may appear to be similar to the traditional halls of residence. They are usually laid out in shared flats and studio apartments with excellent quality accommodation and communal facilities.

Pros:

  • A little more independence than being on campus
  • Can choose to live with your friends
  • Bills are usually included
  • Tend to be better quality
  • Can choose to live alone

Cons:

  • Can be expensive
  • Not on campus
  • Can be less sociable

Private Renting:

Pros:

  • Independence
  • Choose the location
  • Choose how much you want to spend
  • Great practise for when you are older
  • Choose who you live with

Cons:

  • Dealing with letting agencies/landlords can be unreliable
  • Sometimes bad quality – you get what you pay for
  • Bills are typically not included
  • You have to pay council tax

Stay at home:

Financially, this may be the only option available to you, in which case, you will certainly save a lot of money compared to your friends.

Pros:

  • Cheaper
  • Good support network
  • Possibly quieter so can focus on studying

Cons:

  • Less sociable
  • Less independence
  • Public transport fees

Whatever you decide, make sure it is the right choice for you. Your parents may want you to stay at home so you can be safe and study more, and your friends may want you to live on campus so that you can party more. Make sure it is ultimately your choice.

7 Speeches That Will Motivate You To Study

Looking for motivation to study? If you’re feeling unspired and unmotivated, here’s a selection of our favourite talks and speeches to keep you going. TedTalks, for those who don’t know, are presentations given by experts and industry leaders. They’re short, fascinating speeches that are easy to follow and understand. There are TedTalks about everything; from understanding schizophrenia, to study tips, to climate change, to economics. When it comes to learning, there are topics on everything from how to learn, the best techniques for learning and motivation. Here are our favourites.

1. Learning How To Learn – Barbara Oakley

Dr. Oakley flunked her way through high school, before enlisting in the U.S. Army immediately after graduation. When she saw how her lack of mathematical and technical savvy severely limited her options she returned to school with a newfound determination to re-tool her brain to master learning.

2. Learning Styles & The Importance of Critical Self-reflection – Tesia Marshik

Teachers are told that in order to be effective educators, they must identify and cater to individual students’ learning styles; it is estimated that around 90% of students believe that they have a specific learning style.

3. Teaching Methods for Inspiring the Students of the Future – Joe Ruhl

Collaboration. Communication. Critical thinking. Creativity. These should be present in all classrooms.

4. The First 20 Hours: How to Learn Anything – Josh Kaufman

Kaufman specialises in teaching people how to master practical knowledge and skills. In his talk, he shares how having his first child inspired him to approach learning in a whole new way.

5. Techniques to Enhance Learning and Memory – Nancy D. Chiaravalloti

Dr. Chiaravalloti discusses the learning process and techniques that have been shown to improve learning and memory in healthy persons.

6. Why Learning Is Awesome – John Green

Some people learn best in a classroom, but some thrive better in other environments. Either way, we all love to learn, and don’t let bad classroom experiences make you feel otherwise!

7. The Puzzle of Motivation – Dan Pink

Want to feel motivated to study, but can’t seem to get yourself going? Three words for you: watch this video.

USA – Essential Guide for International Students

General Information

Currency: United States Dollar (USD) – this is approx. 1.26USD to every 1GBP
National language: English
Geography: Made up of 50 states and various territories
Time in Capital City: GMT -4
Climate: the USA is so huge so there are frozen wastelands, scorching deserts, non-stop rain or perfect sun depending on where you go.
Population: 327 million

Annual Costs (approx.):

  • University Cost (USD): $24,914
  • Living Costs (USD): $11,658
  • Total Cost (USD): $36,564

Top Universities:

Click on the University name to be taken to their website.

  1. Princeton University, NJ
  2. Harvard University, MA
  3. Columbia University, NY
  4. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), MA
  5. The University of Chicago, IL
  6. Yale University, CT
  7. Stanford University, CA
  8. Duke University, NC
  9. The University of Pennsylvania, PA
  10. John Hopkins University, MD

Applying to Universities and Visas

Most universities in the US require foreign applicants to take an English as a second language test, such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), these are to be completed around a year before you study.

For all other universities, the application deadline is often in January – seven months before you intend to start university.

There are three types of visas for international students in the US: F1 for academic studies; J1 for practical training not available in your home country; and M1 for vocational studies.

Things You HAVE To Do:

  • Route 66 – the most famous and iconic road trip in the entire world. Route 66 takes around 2 weeks to do, including rests. It takes you from Chicago to LA, and you will see some amazing sites such as the painted desert and even a meteor crater!
  • Statue of Liberty – no trip to America would be complete without a trip to Lady Liberty herself. You can get a boat ride around the statue to see her in all of her glory.
  • Disneyland Florida – the most magical place on Earth, Disneyland does not disappoint. Fun for all the family, fun activities, and beautiful Floridian weather.
  • Hollywood sign – an absolute icon, the Hollywood sign is a must see. There is a beautiful hike you can go up to the sign, and you get an excellent view of tinsel town from the top.
  • Yellowstone National Park – or any of America’s national parks. They boast some of the most stunning scenery in the entire world. Gorgeous trails, amazing views, and endless wildlife.

Quick tips:

  • 911 is the emergency number in the US
  • Tipping is required and is seen as rude not to do it. 15-20% is the standard for tipping in restaurants.
  • Make sure you have health and travel insurance before your visit – health care costs are some of the highest in the world here.
  • The prices shown for items in shops are excluding the tax, so estimate that your item will cost 10% more than it appears
  • The US is one of only a few countries to still use the Imperial system. So, think of height in feet, distance in miles, the temperature in Fahrenheit, and weight in pounds

Useful Links

Australia – Essential Guide for International Students

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International students researching their options for study are faced with numerous – often confusing – options and factors to consider. Is the climate right for me? Do I want to live in a Central Business District or a coastal area? Which territory do I want to study in – Western Australia, Queensland or even the Australian Capital Territory? We’re here to help you answer such questions, and ensure that the process of choosing a path for study is smoother and more intuitive for students, parents and counsellors alike.

This guide will prepare all international students for living and learning in Australia. Find out everything you need to know about studying down under such as living costs, student visas, top universities, things to do and much more. Let’s start with the basics.

General Information

Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD) (1.45 AUD to every 1 USD)

Language: English

Capital: Canberra

Population: 25,399,300

Geography: South of East Asia

Annual Costs (approx.)

Study Australia predicts that your 12-month costs will be:

Undergraduate Bachelor Degree (AUD): 20,000 – 45,000

Postgraduate Masters Degree (AUD): 22,000 – 50,000

Cost of Living (AUD): 21,041

Total (USD): 42,093

Want to know more? Use this Cost of Living Calculator to work out how much money you’ll need for your accommodation, transport, food and lifestyle.

Top Universities

According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022, these are the top 5 universities in Australia.

  1. University of Melbourne – Melbourne
  2. = Australian National University – Canberra
  3. = The University of Queensland – Brisbane
  4. Monash University – Melbourne
  5. University of Sydney – Sydney

Visas

If you want to visit Australia to explore or attend a university Open Day, you will need a visitor visa. This will allow you to look around your chosen universities and get a proper feel for what it’s like to live and learn in Australia. This is also an excellent opportunity to look for housing or visit different neighbourhoods to see what your options are for accommodation.

Once you apply for a place at university and are accepted onto a course, you can apply for a Subclass 500 Student Visa. This visa costs AUD630 and will allow you to study in Australia for the duration of your course, up to five years. It also allows you to work alongside your studies for a maximum of 40 hours per fortnight. To explore your options and for more information, visit the Australian Government website

Things you HAVE to do

  • Great Barrier Reef – Rent a scuba diving kit and prepare to be amazed by the Great Barrier Reef. It is insanely beautiful, vast, varied, and totally alien to anything else you would have ever seen. The perfect activity to do on your own or go exploring with your new friends.
  • The Great Ocean Road, Victoria – The road trip of a lifetime. Rent a car and drive along this 150-mile stretch. It’s a very popular activity and a must-do for any tourist hoping to make the most of their time in Australia.
  • Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory – Australia is known for its unique and amazing wildlife. Kakadu National Park is the home to so many different kinds of birds and reptiles found solely in Australia and the tours are very highly rated.
  • Red Centre, Northern Territory – The backdrop to so many Hollywood blockbusters, the Red centre embodies that classic Aussie outback. Let out your inner Priscilla Queen of the Desert, and take a hike around the beautiful red sands and rocks.
  • Bondi Beach – One of the world’s most famous beaches, and the epicentre of surfboarding. A beautiful beach surrounded by quiet secluded coves, white silky sand and clear blue sea.
  • Sydney Harbour Bridge, New South Wales – Climb over the bridge for a fantastic view of one of the most iconic cities in the world. Going over at night promises a breathtaking view of the city with a light show.

Useful links:

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Why Study Marine Biology in Australia?

With the Great Barrier Reef on your doorstep and hundreds of opportunities to conduct your own marine research, Australia is one of the most exciting places to study marine biology. 

Why study Marine Biology? 

Marine biology (or marine science) is the study of aquatic life – the animals, plants and microorganisms that are found in our oceans. 

We can tell a lot about our world from what happens underwater. As a marine biology student, you’ll explore the impact of climate change on marine life such as rising water temperatures and rising sea levels. You’ll also study the impact of human actions on our sea life, such as overfishing and plastic pollution. 

By doing your own research, you can come up with new ways for us to protect our oceans and help to reverse the effects of climate change. This is a course for those who want to change the world. 

Why study Marine Biology in Australia?

On-campus courses

Australia has the benefit of being surrounded entirely by sea, and so there will be plenty of opportunities for hands-on learning. You’ll join a large community of students and academics from around the world that are conducting world-leading research. In Australia, you won’t be restricted to learning in a classroom. You can explore your course hands-on through regular diving trips and research cruises. 

Great Barrier Reef

Australia is home to the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest living thing! It’s 2,300km long and is made up of thousands of reefs and hundreds of islands. Home to more than 1,500 species of fish, 215 species of birds and 6 species of turtles, it’s the perfect place to live and learn about marine life. The closest state to the Great Barrier Reef is Queensland, so look into studying here if you’re particularly interested in diving. 

Save the turtles

Australia is home to many Turtle rescue centres. Here, turtles that are sick and hurt are taken care of until they are fit enough to return to the sea. This is an excellent opportunity to find volunteer work alongside your studies and get experience working with marine animals. 

Australia is the epicentre of Marine Biology

Australia boasts some of the world’s best marine biology courses. It’s also home to some of the biggest employment opportunities in the world. According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022, the best universities in Australia for geology, environmental, earth and marine sciences are:

  1. Australian National University
  2. University of Melbourne
  3. UNSW Sydney
  4. The University of Queensland
  5. Monash University
  6. University of Sydney
  7. University of Western Australia
  8. University of Adelaide
  9. University of Wollongong
  10. Curtin University

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How to Save the World on a Student Budget

Why You Should Become TEFL Qualified

Teaching English Foreign Language (TEFL) has always been a popular qualification to gain, and the number of people becoming TEFL qualified is only going up.

There are 1.5 billion English learners in the world right now, and this number is expected to rise to 2 billion by 2020. The Chinese TEFL market is worth $4.5 billion right now and is rising by around 15% per year. So, as you can see, the TEFL industry is certainly one to consider.

The average salary for Teaching English as a Foreign Language is around $3000 USD, depending on where you go. Although, if you work privately then you can set your own prices.

Why should you get a TEFL qualification?

  1. Fund your travels!

The main reason people become TEFL certified is to fund their travels. Explore the world, and fund it by teaching people English as you go. It is popular amongst gap-year students to do this, although anyone is more than welcome to!

2. Access more teaching jobs

Schools and businesses are more likely to take on teachers who are actually qualified, as it usually means that they offer a higher quality of service than those who are uncertified. Certified teachers know why the English syntax is the way it is, and they have a greater understanding of explaining past/future participles, adjectives, verbs, and nouns. Keep in mind that the rules are different in every language.

3. Gain confidence in your teaching

Sure, everyone has a rough idea of how to teach. But a TEFL course teaches you how to teach. From lesson plans, to various teaching styles, TEFL gives you the training you need to give the best quality teaching. Do you know how to effectively address a language or cultural barrier? This will make you more confident, and assure your student is getting the most out of their lessons.

4. Prepare yourself culturally

TEFL sites usually give you a break down in the culture of the country/region you are considering teaching in. This will make your time in the country more enjoyable and easier for you, as well as allowing you to make the most out of it. Nothing can set you back further than a culture shock.

Sourced from YouTube.

How do I become TEFL certified?

by enrolling in a TEFL course! They are typically anywhere between 100-180 hours long, but they give you plenty of time it slowly complete them. We will provide some links below:

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Why Study Politics in the UK?

The UK has one of the longest and richest political histories on the planet, and so it is easy to see why there has always been a strong amount of students studying Politics degrees there. With Brexit and its many complexities, British Politics remains in the public eye.

Politics is drastically rising in popularity and awareness amongst young people. This is largely due to social media and the ability to share information. Young people are becoming more informed about social injustice, and so turn to politics to help change the world they live in. Voter turnout is higher than it has even been before within the younger demographics, with the UK leading the way.

What are the best UK Universities to study Politics?

This is the list of the top ten Universities for Politics, according to the Guardian University Guide 2021.

  1. University of St Andrews, Scotland
  2. University of Oxford, England
  3. University of Cambridge, England
  4. London School of Economics, England
  5. King’s College London, England
  6. University of Warwick, England
  7. University of Bath, England
  8. Durham University, England
  9. Canterbury Christ Church University, England
  10. Aberystwyth University, Wales

What qualifications do I need to study Politics in the UK?

  • Typical International Baccalaureate requirements: 34 points
  • Typical A-Level requirements: ABB
  • Typical IELTS requirements: 6.5 overall

We had an interview with Aaron Duncan, a recent Politics and International Student, about why you should study Politics in the UK.

Tell us a little about yourself

“My name is Aaron Duncan, and I have just graduated my Politics and International Relations joint honours at the University of Sussex. I have recently undertaken full-time employment as a Senior Operations Resourcer at a tech company in London, in addition to working with a UK political party.”

Aaron Duncan, Politics and International Relations graduate, University of Sussex

Why did you choose to study Politics?

“I picked Politics as I want to leave my mark on the world. Politics shapes everything from health and science, to business and trade, to civil rights, and power relations. I wanted to gain perspectives from others, as well as enrich my own understanding of how and why the world works as it does. As a young adult, the decisions made by the government of today will affect my life tomorrow. There is nothing I find more exciting than to play my part in the momentous changes to come; both domestically as well as internationally.”

Why would you recommend studying Politics in the UK?

“British politics is the most interesting to study regardless of your background, age, or gender. Studying politics in the UK offers incentives that are simply not available in other countries. It’s rich political history provided by controversial leaders (such as Thatcher, Churchill, Blair, and even May) not only gives one the chance to appreciate the changes the UK has endowed onto the world but how it has also provided global political and social norms in doing so. The UK sets the precedent in terms of how the world now views socio-democratic values. For example, Brexit was a decision never seen in political history. This offers those studying Politics in the UK, such as myself, perhaps the most unique opportunity to analyse, debate, and forecast such an event first-hand.”

What experience do you have with Political work experience in the UK?

“The majority of my political work experience comes from working with UK political parties and local councils. Experience within UK Politics is as accessible as you make it. However, planning your career paths within this area is possibly the most important aspect. In other words, think of your end goal and work backwards- and start volunteering! That’s the key to getting your foot in the door of the field.”

Careers in Politics range from the local, national, and international government. As well as a wide range of other professions as well as teaching, media, advising, finance, and banking.

If you’re interested in studying politics in the UK and would like to know more, visit Study International UK for a free consultation.

Enjoyed this article? Check out our other Arts and Humanities subject guides.

Dyslexia at University

It is said that up to 10% of the population falls somewhere on the Dyslexia spectrum. And it’s not uncommon for most people to find out while they’re at University.

Dyslexia is simply a learning difficulty, due to different brain wiring. It does not impact your intelligence. Typically, it makes reading, writing, and maths challenging and it can also have an impact on your short-term memory. Of course, this can make studying at University harder, but it is by no means impossible.

Should I tell my tutors I am Dyslexic?

This is a personal choice, but it will most likely be beneficial to tell your academic tutors and teachers that you’re dyslexic. It means they can make exceptions for you, if necessary. And, if anything, it will make them more understanding if you start to struggle with your coursework or meeting deadlines at a later date. It could also be a nice way to introduce yourself to your tutor, and help them to remember your name. You won’t be penalised or discriminated against for informing your tutors about your dyslexia.

 Additionally, your teachers can also inform you about the disability services your University offers (as Dyslexia is recognised as a disability).

What can my University do for me?

This is case-by-case and it will differ from University to University. Typically, you might get offered extra time in exams and for essay deadlines. You can also have a reader in an exam to help you, be given a laptop to write with, and get a Dyslexic sticker you put on your essays so they do not penalise you. It is worth talking to your tutors/University to find out how they can help.

Can I go to University?

Of course you can! If you achieve the required entry grades, then no one can stop you! Dyslexia doesn’t mean that you should view yourself any differently or any less deserving of a place at university. While you might feel anxious about other students being ‘better’ than you, this is irrelevant. Everyone learns differently, and being different is a good thing.

Are there any famous Dyslexics?

Duh! Dyslexics are said to be way more creative due to the way their brains are wired. Here are just a few:

  • Richard Branson
  • John Lenon
  • Pablo Picasso
  • Steven Spielberg
  • Keira Knightley
  • Holly Willoughby
  • Maggie Aderin-Pocock
  • Leonardo Da Vinci

Do not let your diagnosis of Dyslexia make you feel like you can’t achieve great things, especially at University! Universities are very open to accommodating the Learning Disability. You may get extra marks in your essays/exams for creativity and original ideas due to your disability. Don’t see it as a burden, rather use it to empower you to work harder. Prove the stereotype wrong.