Natalie Alexander

Posted 6th December

Natalie makes her mark in medicine

“At Hackney Community College I learned how to work hard and push myself. To get what you want in life you have to put in the work, even if that means coming out of your comfort zone.”

Ex Hackney Community College student Natalie Alexander is now on call as a qualified doctor after completing her doctorate at Brighton and Sussex Medical School this year. She credits the College as being instrumental in her achieving such success.

Natalie, from Tottenham, studied A-level Chemistry, Biology, Psychology and Sociology at HCC in 2002.

It was her experience at the College which would help shape her future decisions literally, as she was introduced to the Brighton and Sussex Medical School on a class trip.

She recalls: “It was a wonderful day out. I learned that there was life outside of London and a brand new medical school was going to open its doors for its first cohort of students in 2003. Due to the College’s interest in broadening our horizons and steering us students into higher education, I was introduced to the medical school I was to attend and graduate years later.”

Natalie is currently working as a doctor in the surgical department at the North Middlesex University Hospital Trust and is enjoying the fulfilment of being able to help people.

It wasn’t an easy journey for Natalie to accomplish her goal. She praises the College for restoring belief in her abilities after being discouraged from studying medicine by a tutor at another college prior to joining HCC.

“I came to HCC and was given guidance and career advice. Most of all, the teachers and career team opened my eyes and made me realise that I have what it takes to be a doctor. From then on I have never looked back. I really liked my teachers. They were funny, energetic and very positive. I had a clear sense they enjoyed teaching us and genuinely wanted us to succeed.”

Natalie is just one of the many success stories to come from HCC. She had some useful advice for others to continue the trend of excellence.

“Never let anyone put you down or under mind your abilities. Be persistent and persevere regardless of where you are from or what category society places you. Know that you can be whatever you want to be no matter how long it may take. Be educated!!”

Inspirational words from an inspirational lady.