Would-be doctor Matthew Wedlich admitted he was “shocked” when he got the news that he was headed to one of the world’s most prestigious universities.

Mr Wedlich, 23, said he thought had done badly when he was interviewed for a place at St Peter’s College at the University of Oxford in Britain.

He added: “I didn’t think I did too well. I was grilled.”

But he got a letter of acceptance in January, which sparked a search for financial support for his studies.

Mr Wedlich said: “I was already coming from a four-year degree — it was not insignificant, financially.”

But the award of the Dr JJ Soares/Hamilton Medical Centre Scholarship has eased his financial problems.

Dr Soares said Mr Wedlich “really impressed the scholarship committee”.

He added: “It wasn’t just his academic prowess, but also his sensitivity and down-to-earthness.

“Matthew has a modest character. He was a very worthy applicant indeed.”

Mr Wedlich is the third recipient of the award, previously given to Alesha Page and Va Shon Williams.

The scholarship is for $10,000 a year for up to three years.

Dr Soares said academic grants like the Rhodes Scholarship were “the only way” he was able to complete 11 years of study.

He added: “It adds up. I wanted to give the same opportunity to deserving Bermudians.”

Mr Wedlich’s said he spent two summers working at the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital.

He added: “I can’t recommend it enough for people thinking of medical school.”

The research he carried out will be used to shape decisions on hospital policy.

Mr Wedlich said the clinical exposure was “invaluable”.

He added the “million dollar question” is what to do after he graduates with his medical degree.

Mr Wedlich said: “I have a few different interests that I identified through working at the hospital.