Former Sixth Form student Aron Thomassen has been chosen as the recipient of the MSG annual medical bursary.
The bursary provides an aspiring doctor £2,000 annually for up to five years while they’re at medical school, supporting them to spend more time on their studies rather than needing to take on a part-time job to fund essential costs.
Students must submit a 1,000-word essay outlining their career aspirations and how they would use the money from the bursary and are then interviewed by a panel of MSG doctors and the chief executive.
Aron was inspired to commit to a career in medicine after taking part in the MSG’s Taste of Medicine course in 2024.
“I am grateful to the MSG for this bursary,” said Aron. “It enables me to start my studies with the time and resources required, so I can maintain a high standard in my studies, prepare properly for teaching, and engage with early clinical exposure when it is available.
“I was raised in Guernsey and a significant part of my childhood involved supporting my sister’s complex care. Those years were demanding but they taught valuable habits that I will carry into medical school.
“The bursary addresses the practical costs that accumulate over the year, relieving the financial pressure of travelling to placements and conferences, core textbooks and essential equipment, allowing me to treat the course as the full-time commitment it is. I am so thankful to the MSG for their continued support throughout my journey, and I look forward to immersing myself in university life.”
Consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Kalaivani Ramalingam, who was part of the bursary interview panel, said: “We take great pleasure in providing this year’s bursary to Aron, who impressed us with his strong commitment to a career in medicine during both his application and interview.
“The MSG is dedicated to supporting students’ education and encouraging the development of future healthcare professionals in the Bailiwick. By investing in their future, we hope to strengthen the provision of high-quality healthcare to islanders for generations to come. We would encourage any students looking to study medicine to apply for our bursary next year.
“We wish Aron the very best for his future.”
Pictured: Left to right – Dr Kalaivani Ramalingam with Aaron Thomassen
