Exemplary students from health-related disciplines honoured at awards celebrations

Supporting ethnic minority women and helping students from widening participation backgrounds apply to study healthcare degrees were just some of the achievements recognised at a University of Exeter Medical School student prize evenings.

The event, which ran over two days, recognises the academic excellence and extracurricular activities of students studying health-related disciplines.

In total 40 prizes were awarded, many commending those who reached the highest academic grades within their course.

Included amongst the extensive awards were Citizenship Awards, which celebrate students who have made significant contributions to communities.

Tazeen Alim, fifth year Medical student was among those honoured, receiving a citizenship award for her work as Events Coordinator for Inspiring Women Network, a Cornwall-based Community Interest Company that supports women – particularly those from BAME backgrounds – through projects that build confidence and connection.

Tazeen said: “As a British Pakistani woman and previous refugee, I’ve grown up navigating the push and pull of belonging. So many of the women I met through Inspiring Women Network shared this feeling, and that connection built new relationships that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Being able to support women in Cornwall outside of a clinical setting showed me the true meaning of holistic care. Health isn’t just about diagnoses or prescriptions, but it’s also about connection, community and being understood. I want to be the kind of doctor who understands and values a person’s story, culture, and community. Balancing this role with the intensity of medical school wasn’t easy, but it was, without question, one of the most rewarding and meaningful experiences of my life.”

The same prize category also recognised Elisha CoenA, a fourth-year medical student who has volunteered for charity In2MedSchool for the past two years, currently working as Director of Mentorship. The charity aims to support students from widening participation backgrounds to apply to study medicine and other healthcare related degrees. 

Elisha said: ” It’s a pleasure to work with and direct a dedicated team of medical students from across the UK who share a collective commitment to widening participation in medicine. I’m honoured to receive this award and grateful that my work has been recognised.”

The Duchy Health Charity Prize was presented to Alexandra Watkins as the highest achieving third year Medical student based in Cornwall and awards her a £500 prize

Alexandra said: “I’m really honoured to have received this award; it was a pleasant surprise, it’s so nice to know that all my hard work is being celebrated. I’m really enjoying my fourth year back up in Exeter, gaining experience across a variety of placements and having the privilege of meeting and learning from so many wonderful patients and clinicians.”

Professor Karen Knapp, Head of the Department of Health and Care Professions said: “We’re delighted to celebrate our students with these awards. Their hard work and dedication make us incredibly proud. These achievements reflect the depth of their learning and their commitment to excellence. Our students are the future generation of nurses and radiographers who will play a vital role in delivering high-quality healthcare and supporting delivery of the new 10-year NHS plan.”

Professor Richard Holland, Dean of the University of Exeter Medical School, said: “Our students here at Exeter continue to shine. These awards celebrate those who not only strive for academic excellence but also use their knowledge and passion to make a genuine difference for their future patients. Their achievements reflect both their own dedication and the outstanding teaching and support that help them grow and succeed.”

Full list of winners in the table below:

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