Aisha Erkaboeva
BSc Medicine, Downing College, University of Cambridge
As a Cambridge medic now excited to enter my second year, my studies from this past year have been incredibly rewarding. I’ve had the chance to learn from incredible academics, spending my time building strong foundations in anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry, where I’ve been delighted to rank 27th out of a 260-student cohort in our end-of-year exams. Alongside my studies, the financial freedom and confidence afforded to me by receiving a scholarship has allowed me to pursue experiences around me, from applying to extracurricular ultrasound courses, to travelling for trainings and competitions in my primary sport, kickboxing.
Sport has become a major part of my university life; with the support of a scholarship, I am currently working towards European Championships in kickboxing, something that would previously have felt out of reach. Having been appointed the Women’s Captain in Cambridge for my sport, I am particularly looking forward to supporting the club’s women-only sessions. In a sport that may feel predominantly male-dominated, I want to encourage young women to get involved, creating a welcoming space where they can feel comfortable developing their skills.
Beyond sport, I have always enjoyed being a creative, now taking on a role in the design subcommittee of my university’s Islamic Society. I now work with a team to produce event notices, posters, and freshers’ guides – where I can utilise my artistic talents, alongside others to support a community I am part of.
Looking ahead, I hope to be able to grow into my role as Women’s Captain and continue exploring my interests in medicine as my degree brings increasing clinical exposure. I am proud not only of my academic progress, but also of the people and community I have built around me. I hope to use the confidence and experiences this scholarship has given me to lead, support and give back to others, helping other young people see pathways for themselves that they may not yet have considered possible.
