Seven Questions with... Priya Gopaldas

What are you studying, why are you interested in this subject and what do you plan to do in the future?

I study medicine. The dream is to work in orthopaedics. Orthopaedics is all about giving people back their mobility and therefore their independence, which is key in improving quality of life. On my placement, I found this type of surgery not only important but fascinating. It shocked me just how durable the human body is, which motivated me to take on more physically demanding challenges including running 10 half marathons in 10 days and completing a 100km ultramarathon.

What is the most interesting thing you’ve done, seen or got involved with while at UCL?

Working in an ICU during the COVID pandemic is something I will never forget. I worked 12-hour night shifts at the peak of the winter outbreak and I was in absolute awe of the nurses that worked tirelessly to ensure the many patients were looked after. It taught me the power of teamwork in achieving the almost impossible. 

Have you discovered any hidden gems during your time at UCL?

There used to be an amazing café on the top floor of the Cruciform Building. I’d get a hot lunch there every day in my first and second years. Sadly don’t think it exists anymore :(

Give us your top three things to do/see/go to in London:

1. Regent’s Park – whether you’re running around the outer circle, visiting the Frieze art exhibition or watching a play in the open air theatre, you’ve got to go!
2. The Bill Murray comedy club in Angel. It’s a tiny venue where famous comedians go to practice before they go on tour. As the audience is so small, it’s always interactive and there’s a bar in the corner.
3. Archipelago restaurant in Fitzrovia – it’s a unique experience. Order “A visit from the doctor” for dessert.

What’s one thing you’d like to see in a post-Covid world?

No more masks on the tube. It’s unbearably stuffy without masks, it would great to get rates low enough to not need to wear them on the underground.

Who inspires you and why?

David Goggins – he’s a retired Navy Seal. He taught me that if you’re determined enough, your mind can enable you to achieve anything. Would really recommend his book Can’t Hurt Me. 

What would it surprise people to know about you?

Contrary to popular belief, I don’t actually fancy Boris Johnson. And my favourite type of cheese is manchego.