In the latest instalment of our Alumni Spotlight series, we feature Dr Cormac O’Connor, a graduate from the first class of the School of Medicine.
Now a cardiology consultant, Cormac shares how his family’s experience navigating healthcare inspired his decision to pursue a career in medicine, and how the enduring relationships he formed during his time at UL have clearly impacted his professional development.
Can you tell me a bit about yourself?
I'm from Sligo originally and started in the School of Medicine at UL in 2007. I was in the first class of med students the year the programme launched.
What did you study in the School of Medicine, and why did you choose to study at UL?
The medical school at UL didn’t exist the year before I started, and I was excited at the thought of going to a brand new medical school. I liked the idea of a problem-based learning syllabus modeled on the medical programme at King's College in London. Professor Paul Finucane, the founding Dean of the School of Medicine, phoned me on a Friday evening to let me know that the CAO was going to offer me a place the following Monday. I was on the bus to an Eagles of Death Metal concert when he called, and it certainly put me in good spirits.
Tell me about your own career journey so far.
After graduating from UL, I travelled to Dublin for my intern year at the Mater Hospital. As a graduate of a new medical school, I remember there was a lot of interest in how I might compare with UCD graduates. There were four graduates from UL there that year, and thankfully, the education we received at UL stood to us, and we got on very well.
After that year, I completed the basic specialist training in medicine. I applied for the cardiology higher specialist training but wasn’t successful on my first two attempts. I kept working on my CV - writing papers, presenting research at meetings, and completing various courses and exams, and worked in two standalone cardiology registrar jobs. I spent four years in Ireland as part of the cardiology higher specialist training programme and secured a fellowship at St Michael's Hospital in Toronto in interventional cardiology. I spent two years training in stent implantation and heart valve repair and replacement. On my return, I interviewed for a consultant position at UHL and was successful.
What are some of the most rewarding aspects of your career as a consultant?
Cardiology is a great speciality. Whether it’s prescribing the latest in medical technology or placing a stent for someone with a massive heart attack in the middle of the night, there is clear scope for improving patients' lives.
How did your time at UL's School of Medicine prepare you for your career?
When I was a medical student, I completed a placement with Prof Aidan O’Brien, and Dr Eoin Noctor was the registrar on the team at that time. I now work alongside both as colleagues. These enduring relationships started when I was a medical student. I felt very well prepared when I went to Dublin for my intern year compared with graduates from other medical schools.
What or who inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
Growing up, I had a brother with special needs who required a lot of care. As a family, we felt a little disempowered in our ability to negotiate healthcare. I decided I’d try to help make things a little easier for patients to engage with healthcare.
What experiences or opportunities at the university do you think had the most significant impact on your professional development?
The relationships formed during my time as a medical student have had a clear impact on my professional development. The amazing facilities at UL definitely facilitated these relationships. The School of Medicine wasn’t built yet when I started, but the UL Arena and library were great.
Can you share a memorable moment or a favourite memory from your time on campus?
A friend from my year and I go for a run by the river every few weeks. Two weeks ago, we realised it had been 17 years since we started medical school. Back then, the usual response when people asked what you studied was, “They don’t do medicine in 51ɫ,” but now it’s very well established. For old times, we took a selfie outside the Stables and sent it to the WhatsApp group of graduates.
Are there any professors or mentors at UL that have played a pivotal role in your academic and personal development?
Though Prof Kiernan wasn’t there when I was a medical student, he helped me plan my career pathway when I returned as a registrar. This was certainly a key factor in my career success and my return to UHL.
Were you a member of any clubs or societies?
I was a member of the Kickboxing Society at UL. I was on the national team while I was at UL and was a daily visitor to the punchbag in the corner of the first floor of the UL Arena.
Reflecting on your journey from medical student to Midwest consultant, what personal qualities or skills have been most instrumental in your professional growth and success?
I think being personable is a really underrated attribute, but it’s something that takes practice. Getting to know people allows you to communicate better with patients and get along well with colleagues. With enough practice, you will be able to identify symptoms that patients don’t even realise they have.
What’s the one piece of advice you would give to budding medical students?
Work hard, and keep working. Don’t let anyone else decide what you can and can’t do.