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I’m incredibly grateful to have completed the Qatar Aspiring Doctors Program (QADP) at Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar, a year-long experience that I undertook alongside my first year of the IB Diploma. Stepping into WCM-Q’s laboratories and learning within an environment surrounded by professors, researchers, and future physicians gave me a perspective on medicine that I could not have gained from a textbook alone.

From hands-on laboratory experiences to discussions and academic sessions, I was able to see how the foundations of biology and scientific research translate into the realities of healthcare. What I valued most was learning from professors who encouraged us to ask questions rather than simply look for answers. Their approach showed me that medicine is not just about knowing the science, it is about remaining curious, thinking critically, communicating effectively, and continuously being willing to learn.

These are qualities I hope to develop throughout my journey into medicine. A doctor must be able to analyse complex information, recognize details that others may overlook, communicate with empathy, and make thoughtful decisions when the answer is not always obvious. QADP challenged me to begin developing these skills early. More than anything, this experience made my aspiration to pursue medicine feel tangible. It allowed me to step into the environment I hope to one day call my own and reflect on the kind of doctor I want to become.

I’m honoured to have received an Honors Certificate in recognition of my performance and engagement throughout the program. I’m especially grateful to the professors and everyone at WCM-Q who made this experience so meaningful and helped shape the way I now see medicine. I leave QADP not only with a stronger scientific foundation, but with a deeper sense of purpose for why I want to pursue medicine.

Quotation by Aline Meira - Doha British School

Aspiring Medical Student | Head Girl at Doha British School | Professional Volleyball Player at Al Khor Sports Club | English Tutor and Partnerships Coordinator at Instilt Educate

This year’s participating high schools were Al Maha Academy for Girls, American School of Doha, Compass International School Doha, Doha British School - Ain Khaled, Doha College, Durham School for Girls, Edison International Academy, English Modern School Doha, International School for Medical Science and Engineering, International School of Choueifat, International School of London-Qatar, Middle East International School, Pearling Season International School, Al Gharaffa Branch, Qatar Academy Al Wakra, Qatar Academy Doha, Qatar Academy High School, Qatar Academy Sidra, Shantiniketan Indian School, Sherborne Qatar (MOQ campus), Swiss International School in Qatar, and Vision International School.

QADP

A year that brought medicine beyond the classroom "

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