Life After Lancing: Eamon Rustom

As part of our Where Are They Now? series, we continue to highlight the journeys of Old Lancians who have pursued careers in Medicine and the health sciences. In this edition, we speak with Eamon, now studying Medicine at Keele University. He reflects on the inspirations that sparked his ambition to become a doctor, the role Lancing played in shaping his path, and his early experiences at medical school.

Your Journey to Medicine

What inspired you to study Medicine?
I was inspired to study Medicine because I have always wanted to help people. To me, Medicine is where art and science meet; it’s as much about listening and empathy as it is about diagnosis and treatment. The idea of making a real, lasting difference for even one person—and being there when they need support most—motivated me to pursue this path.

How did your time at Lancing help you prepare for applying to Medicine?
Being part of the Medics’ Society for over two years was invaluable preparation. Through discussing PBL cases, practising communication and listening techniques, and taking part in mock MMIs—both as an interviewer and interviewee—I developed confidence and a clearer understanding of what studying Medicine involves. Lancing also provided opportunities to speak directly with university admissions staff, which helped me understand the selection process and refine each stage of my application.

What experiences at school were most valuable in shaping your ambition to become a doctor?
Charity work at Lancing opened my eyes to how you can make a lasting difference in your community. Supporting younger pupils allowed me to guide, mentor, and have a meaningful impact on their lives. These experiences showed me how rewarding it is to help others and reinforced my ambition to pursue a career where I can continue to make a positive difference to people’s health and well-being.

At University

Which university did you choose, and how has it been?
I chose Keele University, and over the past six weeks I have enjoyed every moment. From surgical seminars to hands-on dissection classes, I’ve been continually challenged and inspired, with each experience broadening my understanding and curiosity.

What has been the most surprising or enjoyable part of university life?
The most enjoyable part has been the flexibility. At medical school, I can manage my own schedule, choose when to study, and focus on areas that interest me most. I’ve also really valued working collaboratively in PBL sessions, where group discussions and problem-solving deepen understanding in a way few other degrees can. Being able to shape my own learning has made studying more engaging and rewarding than I ever expected.

How did you find the transition from Lancing to university?
Thanks to the strong academic foundation and independence I gained at Lancing, I found the transition both smooth and enjoyable. The self-guided nature of A-Level study prepared me well, and I felt used to being away from home, so starting university didn’t feel like a dramatic change.

Looking Back and Ahead

Which teachers, mentors, or experiences at Lancing supported you most?
The head of the Medics’ Society, Mrs Fern Britnel, played a huge role in my journey. She helped me refine my Personal Statement, offered targeted feedback during practice interviews, and arranged for guest speakers to discuss careers in medicine. Her support transformed my worries into confidence.
I am also deeply grateful to Dr Damian Kerney and Dr Mark Walsh for their guidance throughout my five years at Lancing—supporting my applications, personal statement, and super-curricular development. I don’t have the words to express my gratitude; all I can say with certainty is that without them, I would not be where I am today.

What advice would you give to current pupils considering Medicine?
Start preparing early—academically, for interviews, and through volunteering. There is a lot to manage for a successful application, and waiting until the end of Lower Sixth can mean missing valuable opportunities such as charity work, volunteering placements, and in-school leadership roles that help you stand out.
Academically, I recommend taking the UCAT just before returning to school for Upper Sixth, ideally in late August or early September. Booking later gives you more time in the summer to revise and take practice tests, which are crucial.
For interviews, research how your chosen universities conduct them, review previous years’ questions, and prepare bullet points for common themes—such as “Why do you want to be a doctor and not a nurse?”

What area of Medicine are you most interested in exploring?
I’m currently most interested in anatomy, particularly the structures and arrangements of the human body. Through cadaveric dissections, I’ve developed a newfound appreciation for anatomy, and I am eager to explore surgery in the future because I find the hands-on aspect of medicine the most intriguing.