Rachel Owusu-Ankomah is CMF Head of Student Ministries.

Well, you have arrived at university. A myriad of emotions may be flooding you: excitement, fear and confusion. Perhaps a mix of questions: can I do this? What will people be like? Will I make friends? How do I get to lecture theatre 37F?

Change can be hard, but change is also good. God is changing us to be more like his Son each day, refining us, and trust me, university is a big old refinery.

'And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.' (Romans 8:28-30)

So how do we navigate this brave new world as a Christian?

CMF exists to help you do just that. We are an organisation, passionate about encouraging and equipping Christian medical and nursing students to live their best life for Jesus Christ. We want to help you begin at university well, and not just begin, but to run the race of life (including your studies and career) well to the end. As you face opportunities and challenges, may I urge you to fix your eyes on Jesus (Hebrews 12:2) and seek him first (Matthew 6:33). You may trip, fall, or run in the wrong direction - but keep going, don't give up - 'he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion' (Philippians 1:6).

This Freshers' edition of Nucleus, our termly student magazine, is jam packed with wisdom and advice from people that have been where you are now. Advice that I still find refreshing and encouraging, even now, years after I have graduated.

We have top tips on surviving medical school (page 6) but not just surviving, also thriving (page 21). Stories and testimonials from medical students (page 16), nurses (page 25), right the way through training (page 24) to consultants (page 26).

We are also taking you to church, or rather giving you some advice on choosing a church (page 4).

We hope that you enjoy this edition of Nucleus; as you will see Christianity and healthcare have a rich shared history (page 52). We wish you well on this new journey and with Paul pray that God will: 'fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God…' (Colossians 1:9-10)

On behalf of the CMF student team,
Rachel