Dr Lujain Sarrar highlights the proactive support and welcoming environment she received.
Published: 12th May 2025
Dr Lujain Sarrar shares her personal journey as an International Medical Graduate (IMG) and resident doctor, highlighting the proactive support and welcoming environment she received.
Lujain is a 2nd year internal medicine trainee (IMT2), originally from Jordan. She trained at the University of Jordan, completing her foundation training in Amman. Since moving to the UK, her journey through the NHS has been shaped by adaptability and a drive to keep growing with every challenge that comes her way.
As an internal medicine resident doctor, currently based in the North West, she is undertaking a demanding training programme, she explains: “After five years of subspecialty training, I will be considered a consultant. It may take a few more years to feel fully confident in that role but I'm enjoying the challenge - it's a real investment.”
That investment goes beyond time and training: “It was very brave of me. All my family is back home, and I’m here on my own, training.”
For Lujain, entering the NHS with LE has made a significant difference. “My experience with LE has been exciting, fun, and supportive. “I’ve only been in the UK for about a year and a half, and coming into the NHS with LE has made the transition so much smoother. I don’t think I would have received as much support otherwise.”
She credits both her host trust and training environment for being proactive and welcoming. “All the hospitals I’ve worked at have been very engaging and supportive. They really helped with integrating into the NHS and understanding the expectations of training.”
Through all the support, Lujain candidly reflects on the steep learning curve she faced as an IMG entering the NHS. She explains: "I think the one thing I might have benefited from is an IMG specific induction when I started my placement. We go through exams and gain GMC registration, but many day-to-day aspects of NHS life remain unfamiliar until you experience them firsthand."
Lujain also explains that communication stands out among her challenges. "Breaking bad news, DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) discussions, speaking with families - these conversations are culturally different for many IMGs.”
She recalls how even routine tasks, such as using NHS equipment, required a period of adjustment. “The cannulas here look completely different,” she laughs.
Navigating the NHS training system was an unexpected learning experience, she explains: “We don’t have ePortfolios where I come from. We’re assessed through exams, so when I first heard of terms like CBDs (Case-Based Discussions) and SLEs (Supervised Learning Events), I had no idea what they meant. Everything felt unfamiliar at first - but I’ve got the hang of it now.”
In addition to the support LE offers to IMGs transitioning into their new jobs and getting the most out of living in the UK, Lujain believes more host-specific practical workshops could bridge the gap in supporting IMGs in learning essential skills.
Lujain has now successfully adapted to life working in the NHS and is focused on building a future in the UK. When asked whether she might return to Jordan one day, she reflects: “I would have loved to stay in Jordan, but I felt I wouldn’t grow there in the same way.”
As for her career aspirations, Lujain is still exploring. “I haven’t settled on a specialty yet—I want to explore more. But whatever I do, I bring passion into it. Ultimately, I want to be a consultant and contribute meaningfully—to patients, staff, and future colleagues.”
Dr. Lujain Sarrar’s story is one of courage and overcoming new challenges. With her passion for learning, there’s no doubt her journey in the NHS will continue to be inspiring and impactful.
For additional resources available to both new and existing IMGs, please see the links below: