Junior doctor gives her prescription for success

Since graduating from Christ the King in 2003, Kiemu Emanuwa’s career has gone from strength to strength.

She joined the Access to Medicine course at King’s College London University straight after leaving CTK, and completed medical school in 2010.

After medical school she went on to complete Foundation Training and over two years rotated through different specialities at Princess Royal Hospital in Bromley, and Medway Hospital in Gillingham.

Kiemu has always had an interest in global health, having taken time away from her medical studies in 2007 to complete an additional degree in International Health at University College London. In 2012 she put that interest into action when she flew off to South Africa to work in a rural hospital for a year.

She’s now back in the UK, working as a junior doctor in the intensive care unit at a leading heart and lung hospital and preparing for her Anaesthetics speciality training – not to mention her wedding. We spoke to Kiemu to find out more about her career path, her time at CTK, and her plans for the future.

Kiemu, what have been the most exciting or rewarding moments of your career so far?

Working in rural South Africa.

What professional achievement are you most proud of?

Gaining a place on the Anaesthetic training programme in London.

What has been the greatest challenge you have faced during your career?

Working at night as the only doctor on call at a hospital in rural South Africa

How did your time at Christ the King Sixth Form College influence your career path?

The teachers at CTK supported me when I was doing well, and when I wasn’t doing as well. They believed in me, and lobbied university admissions tutors on my behalf – for which I say thank you!

What are your proudest personal achievements?

Spending a year working abroad without friends, family or creature comforts.

What’s next for you in your career and life?

This year I am getting married and starting Anaesthetics speciality training. In the future, I hope to become an Anaesthetic Consultant whist continuing to pursue my interest in Global Health

What are your fondest memories from the time you attended Christ the King Sixth Form College?

Good friends and supportive teachers.

If you could give your fellow alumni any advice, what would it be?

You need to work harder than you think. What you do now may have a big influence on your options in the future.