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Husnat writes about her training

Posted 16th January 2026
by Husnat

This year has been a really important one for me, both in medical school and in my personal life. I wanted to take a moment to reflect on what I’ve been doing and how much JVenn Foundation's support has meant to me along the way.
Since hearing how competitive training in the NHS has become, I’ve tried to be proactive about building my portfolio alongside my studies. One of the biggest highlights of my year was attending and presenting at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists conference in London. It was an amazing experience and gave me a real insight into the specialty.
What I hadn’t fully appreciated before was just how expensive it can be to build a medical portfolio as a student. The conference alone costs £250, not including accommodation in London and transport. It was honestly quite a shock. Thanks to the financial support I received, I was able to attend without worrying about the cost, and that made such a difference.
Clinically, I’ve had some unforgettable experiences. I’ve spent time shadowing doctors in obstetrics and gynaecology, watched several surgeries, seen my first vaginal delivery and caesarean section, and even been allowed to assist in small ways during procedures (holding instruments!). It was all incredibly exciting and has really strengthened my interest in the specialty.
I’ve also become involved in a new medical society at my med school called the Women in Surgery Society. I’m currently the Mentorship Lead, and I’m really looking forward to seeing how the society develops and to supporting other students who are interested in surgery.
Academically, I’ve had a good second year and was really happy with my exam results. I know I wouldn’t have achieved these results without access to extra learning resources like Passmedicine. Without financial support, I wouldn’t be able to afford the different resources I use, which are essential to my learning and exam preparation.
Outside of medicine, I recently passed my driving test, which I am so happy about.
Overall, I’m incredibly grateful for the support I’ve received. It’s allowed me to make the most of my time at university, to focus on my studies without constant financial stress, and to take up opportunities that I otherwise wouldn’t have been able to access. This support has helped me grow not just academically, but personally too, and I’m very thankful for it.

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