For former Imperial College BSc Chemistry graduate, Michael Sorensen, having a career as a scientist or industrialist was just not enough.
The 28-year-old from Worcester is now taking his first steps to a possible career as a GP when he graduates amongst the top students in his year with an Honours Degree in Medicine – the MBChB degree – from Swansea University’s School of Medicine on Wednesday, July 21.
“I just could not see myself working in a laboratory environment for the rest of my life,” he said.
“The other option was to go into finance but I didn’t view this as very socially responsible, an opinion highlighted by the current financial crisis.”
Keen to go into a rewarding career where he could use his scientific knowledge to his advantage, Michael applied for the Graduate Entry Medicine Programme at Swansea University.
He said: “After completing my schooling at Worcester Royal Grammar School and then living and studying in London for four years, I wanted to continue my studies somewhere that I would really enjoy.
“There were only a few places in the country that offered the Graduate Entry Medicine Programme and I was impressed by the School of Medicine and the facilities at Swansea University when I came for my initial interview.
“This was a relatively new programme for the School and it meant I had to do my first two years in Swansea and then two years in Cardiff, but I am now looking forward to returning to Swansea this year.”
In recognition of his academic achievements, Michael has also been awarded the DA Williams Prize in Therapeutics. This award was established in 1974 as a result of a generous gift from Philips-Duphar of Holland and is given to a student who excelled in their knowledge of the pharmacology and prescribing of medicines.
Professor Rhys Williams, Deputy Head of the School of Medicine at Swansea University said: “The entire team at the School of Medicine is absolutely delighted with this year’s results and we’d like to take this opportunity to send our heartfelt thanks and congratulations to all our 2010 graduands for the immense effort and dedication they have shown. Also, a huge thank you to their families and friends who have supported them throughout their four years of study.
“This really is our best year over. Every single one of our Graduate Entry Medicine students has passed and, even better, over half have received honours and commendations. What a performance!
“And of course, we’re delighted that three of our students have been selected as overall Prize Winners; Esther Godfrey wins the Sam Davies Prize, James Kahane wins the Dean’s Prize and Michael Sorensen wins the DA Williams Prize. Llongyfarchiadau!”
Michael is now looking forward to the start of his Foundation Year 1 (FY1) job at Singleton Hospital in August where he will be working as a junior doctor on rotation within the general surgery ward.
This will be followed by another year of Foundation jobs before he is able to apply for specialist training.
“Although it will be quite a few years before I can apply for training as a GP or any other area of specialisation, I really like working and living in Swansea, so expect that I will be around for a while longer.”
Proud parents, Dr Michael Sorensen – a GP himself, and Jayne, who is a nurse, will be travelling from Worcester to attend Michael’s graduation.
“I never had any intention of following in my dad’s footsteps, so the thought of one day having two Dr Michael Sorensens in the family is quite amusing,” said Michael.
“I’ll probably have to relocate and practice my cooking skills elsewhere as the postman is already confused over who the letters belong to!
“Fortunately it is still early days and I can keep my career options open.”
For more information about Swansea University Graduation Week visit http://www.swansea.ac.uk/graduation/
