What is it like to study medicine at UR ; Shimwa Anne Laurette shares her experience

Studying Medicine at UR offers students more than classroom learning. Through practical sessions, well-equipped laboratories and guidance from experienced lecturers, students are given opportunities to turn theoretical knowledge into skills they can apply in real healthcare settings.

For second-year medical student Shimwa Anne Laurette, this hands-on approach has been an important part of her journey at the University. She chose to study at the University of Rwanda because of its reputation as one of the country’s leading universities, and says her experience so far has been both rewarding and enriching.

Shimwa conducting a laboratory experiment alongside her fellow student

One of the aspects she values most is the University’s emphasis on practical training. Through well-equipped laboratories, students are given opportunities to translate theoretical concepts into hands-on skills. During a recent practical session, for instance, Shimwa and her classmates conducted a pregnancy test, an exercise that helped them understand how procedures learned in class are applied in real healthcare settings.

“Practical activities like these help us gain important skills and prepare us for our future careers in hospitals,” Shimwa says.

For her, this practical approach is an important part of preparing future healthcare professionals. She describes her lecturers as friendly, supportive and highly skilled, creating a learning environment where students can seek guidance while developing their knowledge and professional abilities.

Shimwa says the greatest rewards of a career in medicine come from the opportunity to serve others and contribute to saving lives

Shimwa also encourages young people aspiring to pursue medicine to remain committed to their dreams. While the profession can be demanding, she believes its rewards come from the opportunity to serve others and contribute to saving lives.

Her experience reflects the importance of combining academic knowledge with practical exposure in medical education. With qualified lecturers, good facilities and hands-on learning opportunities, Shimwa believes the University of Rwanda is providing her with a strong foundation for a rewarding career in medicine