Name: Ankesh Gandhi

Course: Medicine Year 2

“Seeing a smile on people’s faces and meeting new people motivated me to do more for the community”

What are your main duties and how do they benefit others?

- VP for Desi Soc

- VP/Teacher for Student Led Teaching (SLT)

- Events Co-ordinator for CCTS

- Treasurer for PsychNeuro

Through all the societies I am part of I have a range of duties and tasks I do from planning and coordinating the running of social and academic events, to teaching 1st year medical students. I also balance these commitments with my volunteering role at the Stratford based charity Doctors of the World.

What have you enjoyed most about volunteering?

The part I enjoyed the most throughout all my commitments was seeing a smile on peoples faces and meeting new people. This was a big thing for me and motivated me to do more for the community.

What skills have you learnt and used during your volunteering?

I think one of the skills that I have had to use and further improved upon, is my communication skills both with my colleagues on committee and also guests during events. My roles at the SU also taught me a valuable skill of balancing voluntary work with my degree, and making myself more organised.

What inspires you to volunteer?

The enjoyment of giving back to people!

What is your favourite volunteering memory?

Everything! From the academic side to the socials!

What are your future career aspirations?

Hopefully if all goes to plan the goal is to become a doctor!!

I think all the roles I have taken this year have helped build the skills that are necessary in any doctor.

Why do you love volunteering?

It allows me to pursue my interests both inside and outside of medicine, whilst providing a great opportunity to meet new people and make new friends.