Each year, the Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych) runs a nationwide campaign with a clear mission: to encourage more medical students to choose psychiatry as their specialty.

For this year’s campaign, I set out to create a hero video that not only informed but also inspired — a piece that would spark curiosity, challenge preconceptions, and ultimately guide students toward considering a career in psychiatry.

The concept was rooted in authenticity and relatability. Rather than relying on scripted messaging or glossy generalisations, I developed a podcast-style format that invited viewers into a real, human conversation. Two psychiatrists — one an early-career mentor, the other a student still weighing their options — sat down for an open, honest dialogue about the field. With the aid of simple question cards, they explored the challenges, rewards, and personal experiences that define a life in psychiatry.

The result: an intimate and engaging film designed to resonate with students at a pivotal moment in their journey — showing them that psychiatry isn’t just a career path, but a place where they can make a meaningful impact.