Sixthformer secures dream medical offer from Cambridge

A talented Barrow Sixth Form College student is celebrating after securing an offer for a sought-after degree course at one of the country’s top universities.

Toby Wilson says he was shocked to receive his offer to study medicine at Cambridge University to pursue his dream to become a doctor.

The 17-year-old, who is studying four A levels at the Rating Lane campus, said he was now working hard to achieve the grades.

“Initially I was shocked because I was prepared for bad news due to how competitive places are,” he said. “I feel proud with a sense of relief that now the A levels are the last hurdle.

“College has supported me really well. Initially from listening to talks from Oxbridge students in the first year, dispelling some of the myths about the universities and encouraging students from college to apply and not be put off. I also had a mock interview at college which helped me to be able to think on my feet and have a bit more of an idea of what to expect during my interviews.”

Toby, who joined sixth form from St Bernard’s School and is on the Honours programme, said his family and friends had been very supportive and were pleased he’d achieved his goal.

“I’m thankful that they have been there to help me along the way when I have needed to talk through my options. They are happy for me wherever I choose to study or work.”

Toby founded the Furness Future Medics Forum in lockdown to help others overcome the boundaries of work experience in a pandemic. The online forum attracted doctors, healthcare professionals and students who have come from the local area to talk about their journey into medicine and pass on any advice they gained along the way to the students.

Deputy Head of Sixth Form Helen Rastelli said she was delighted to hear about Toby’s success.

“Toby is an exceptional student and he will undoubtably make an excellent doctor,” she said. “Toby has made a valuable contribution to college life, his work in managing Furness Future Medics has helped other students to gain valuable insights into working in medicine and healthcare. It is an exciting time of year at college as we help students to finalise their progression plans.
The best part of our job is watching our students flourish and succeed.”

Toby, who was also allocated a mentor from Cambridge, said he wanted a career that was academic but had problem solving and practical skills.

“Medicine has so many paths I could potentially work in the future meant that this would be a career which would be fulfilling – despite the challenges it brings.”

Toby, who studies physics, maths, biology and chemistry, encouraged others to apply to Oxbridge.

“If someone was unsure about applying I’d say that it is something that is achievable and give it a go. It does require hard work but if you think Cambridge is somewhere that you’d like to study in the future go for it.

“I want people from our area to know that no opportunities or options are limited, if you are prepared to work hard and interested then there is nothing to hold you back. The university is looking for this and having the confidence to apply shouldn’t be something to be scared of.”