‘It means the world to me’: Limerick medicine graduate honoured with five academic medals for excellence

FROM THE quiet village of Croagh to the bustling halls of the University of Limerick (UL), Dr Kornelia Dembicka's journey is one deeply rooted in community, perseverance, and academic brilliance.
The Limerick-raised doctor is celebrating a remarkable achievement, graduating from UL’s School of Medicine with five prestigious medals honouring her exceptional performance, including top awards in surgery, paediatrics, and overall academic excellence.
Having arrived in Ireland from Poland at just six years old, Kornelia and her family found their home in Limerick.
“My family quickly grew fond of Limerick, and we've never considered living anywhere else,” she said.
“I attended Coláiste na Trócaire Secondary School in Rathkeale, where I had a truly enjoyable experience. The friendships I formed and the support I received there played a big role in shaping who I am today.”

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Limerick embraced them, and in turn, they became an integral part of its fabric, with Café Rose on Roche’s Street, run by her mother Katarzyna, her sister Magda and brother-in-law Jacek.
It is now a beloved spot among locals. “Café Rose has become a well-loved spot among locals and is a testament to our strong connection to the community,” she said.
Her path to medicine began not in the lecture halls but in a local pathology lab, and was fuelled by a growing desire to move from behind the microscope to the front lines of patient care.
With strong roots in Limerick and an unwavering commitment to both research and community health, Dr Dembicka represents the very best of what local talent can achieve, and her story is just beginning.
Kornelia completed her undergraduate degree in biomedical science in Cork, but a placement in the pathology lab at University Hospital Limerick shifted her focus.
“While training as a medical scientist, I found myself increasingly curious about what was happening beyond the laboratory, and I realised that I was drawn to a career with more direct patient interaction.
“I decided to take the leap and sit the Graduate Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT) and apply to the School of Medicine in UL.”
One of the highlights of the course for her was the extensive clinical placements in Tipperary, Clare and Limerick and Kerry, where one mentor left a lasting impression.
“My first placement was in a GP practice in Ardfert, County Kerry, under the supervision of Dr John Casey. I learned a great deal about diagnosing and managing patients during this time. Dr Casey’s approach to patient care made a lasting impression on me.
“I found great fulfilment in speaking with patients, hearing their stories, and carrying out clinical examinations. I hope to demonstrate the same level of thoroughness and dedication when I begin practising next month.”
Kornelia’s commitment to academic research has featured strongly throughout her studies, having contributed to two publications during her undergraduate degree and published two papers in her own right during her graduate studies in medicine.
While her final assessments – 15 exams over nine days – were one of the most challenging periods of her studies, Kornelia credits preparation, resilience, and support from her community for helping her to succeed.
“My fiancé, parents, sisters, extended family and friends consistently encouraged me over the four years and ensured I could focus all of my attention on studying. Thanks to their support, I’m now able to pursue a career in medicine, and I will always be thankful for that.”

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The School of Medicine graduate received five medals in recognition of her outstanding academic performance at UL’s Summer Conferring ceremonies: First Prize in the Discipline of Surgery, First Prize in Professional Competencies, First Prize in the Discipline of Paediatrics, First Prize for Overall Performance in the Graduate Entry Medicine Programme, as well as the O’Higgins Medal which is presented to the BMBS graduate with the highest mark in final clinical examinations in Surgery and Medicine.
“Graduating this week with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery means the world to me. Receiving these awards was an incredible honour and, quite honestly, a surprise. I had worked really hard over the four years but so had so many of my peers. It felt incredibly rewarding to have that effort recognised.”
Looking ahead, Kornelia will begin her intern year at University Hospital Limerick in July and has been accepted onto the academic intern track, which provides dedicated time during the year for research. She will conduct research in the area of haematology-oncology, specifically on chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, under the supervision of Professor Ruth Clifford.
“Research is what keeps me curious. I’m genuinely excited about the work ahead. It’s the constant opportunity to explore new ideas and contribute to improving patient care that keeps my curiosity alive.
“With the start of my new role just around the corner, I’m excited to return to University Hospital Limerick, and finally not as a student!”