A Bermudian has returned from the National Medical Leadership Forum in Boston with a heightened enthusiasm to become a doctor.

Diana Richardson returned last month and was one of many students chosen from around the world to attend the forum.

She said: "The trip was really great. I was told by some of the medical interns that it is really hard work but very rewarding. That makes me want to be a doctor even more.'' During the 11-day forum, Diana visited some of the world's most famous medical institutions including the Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Centre, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, and the Lahey Hitchcock Medical Centre.

She said: "At each place, there were lectures given by doctors and medical students. They made it easy to understand and very interesting.'' The sixteen-year-old's interest in becoming a physician was sparked by a desire "to help other people''.

She also noted the film "Patch Adams'' as being instrumental in her future plans.

But Diana said her attendance at the course has made her enthusiasm stronger.

The student was the only Bermudian to attend the forum although there were young people from all over the world, including the US, Europe and Asia.

And while most of the course consisted of various lectures, Diana said there was some practical experience involved.

She explained: "The teachers gave us courses in what is called problem based learning. This involves the examination of a mock patient and diagnosing their ailments.'' Diana added that because the mock patient was an adolescent, her interest in working with young people was heightened.

"That particular experience made me want to consider becoming a paediatrician,'' she said.

Funding for the trip, however, apparently required some effort.

Diana said the tuition alone was $2,500 and this did not include the airline fares.

She managed to raise enough with help from her parents, godfather and relatives and also by asking various companies around the Island for sponsorship.

These included Argus Insurance Company Ltd., Bermuda Pest Control Ltd. and the Warwick Workman's Club.

When asked if it was worth it, the Bermuda High School for Girls student said: "Definitely. I have so many memories and I made lots of friends from all over the world. And I would certainly recommend it to more Bermudians for next year.'' Diana will be entering her final year at BHS this September.

After completing her General Certificate of Secondary Education's she is considering going to Boston College, Brown University or Boston University to continue her education.

New friends: Bermudian Diana Richardson poses with her newfound friends, Lucas Rowell (left) and Chris Rife outside Babson College in Boston. All three took part in last month's National Medical Leadership Forum.