As BST 2 ends, I prepare for an HST interview while protecting the travel, curiosity, ambition, and hope that make the rest of my life whole.
Tying Up
I pass the MRCEM SBA and departmental exam, reflect on a chaotic year and prepare for HST without postponing the rest of my life any longer.
Loose Ends
BST2 kicked my ass. Between exams, lost balance and unforgettable adventures, I look back before whatever comes next in emergency medicine.
Aestivation
Back from Spain, I swap mountain trails for exam notes, portfolio panic, freediving escapes and plans for a milestone birthday and big trip.
Same Old
I find joy in Malta’s sea, fitness and writing, but hospital rotations, relentless studying and ambition slowly push me towards burnout too.
Deep End
My first week as a BST 2 throws me into strokes, advanced cancer and one haunting transplant case that exposes the limits of emergency medicine.
START OF BST 2
I begin BST 2 with more responsibility, a better training programme and a renewed determination to grow without losing my hard-won balance in life.
END OF BST 1
Reflecting on the end of BST1, choosing emergency medicine, keeping travel alive, and proving that medicine and life can coexist.
T + 365
Back from the Philippines, I return to work renewed, complete my first BST year, pass my ARCP, and bring home one unexpected souvenir.
BST 1 – Checking In
A reflective post-gap year check-in on freedom, routine, work-life balance and learning to live without falling back into old habits.