From opera to medicine: Anna finds her true voice in Dundee

As a rising star on Europe’s opera scene, the professionally trained singer performed in some of the continent’s most prestigious theatres, including a stint with the acclaimed Bavarian State Opera’s Young Artists Programme. But behind the curtain, a different calling was growing stronger.

Anna said, “Even when I was fully immersed in music, there was always this quiet voice in the background. I had a deep interest in science and a desire to help others. I couldn’t shake the feeling that medicine was something I was meant to do. But I had no idea how to get in.”

Swapping Arias for anatomy was no easy feat. Anna had left formal education years earlier and came from an arts background, which meant tackling challenging entrance exams and re-learning scientific areas. After an unsuccessful first attempt to gain a medical school place, she remained undeterred.

She returned to the UK, enrolled in the Access to Medicine course near her home in London, and then successfully applied to Dundee’s Gateway to Medicine programme. The unique course helps those from non-traditional or disadvantaged backgrounds prepare for a medical degree.

Anna said, “The Gateway programme at Dundee was incredible, the staff were so supportive. The staff at the medical school were also so supportive, especially as I started the MBCHB just as the pandemic hit in September 2020. Lectures were recorded, which helped me hugely. I could replay them until I understood. Coming from a different background, that kind of support made all the difference.”

Five years on and Anna is celebrating her graduation from the University of Dundee’s School of Medicine. Anna credits her perseverance to faith, family, and the inner drive that first compelled her to start the journey. 

“I just couldn’t ignore it. If I could channel the same work ethic I gave to singing into something like medicine, I knew it would be worth it.”

Her transition was not just academic. Moving to Dundee was another shift, but one she welcomed. "Scotland and Dundee is warm, friendly and welcoming. I felt at home quickly.”

Throughout the course, Anna found joy in learning and inspiration in those she worked with. Anna said, “I’ve been lucky to learn from clinical staff who are not only skilled but deeply compassionate. They’re role models I hope to emulate. The support I received from Dundee, the staff, my colleagues, and my friends, was just incredible. I’ll always hold this place close to my heart.”

Next for Anna is her Foundation Year 1 training at Broomfield Hospital in Essex, a step she describes as “daunting, but exciting.”

As Anna prepares to walk across the Caird Hall stage at Dundee’s graduation ceremony on Friday 27 June, she insists her feelings are simply one of gratitude and humility.

“The overwhelming feeling is just ‘thank you.’ I’ve been given the opportunity to change my life, and I’ll never forget it.”