Getting into medical school can seem an uphill struggle but it is achievable. The first and most important step is to make the decision that a medical career is definitely for you. From there you need to tackle the process one stage at a time...
1. Making the decision
You have probably thought about it a great deal but do you have volunteering or other work experience? If not, spend some time getting an insight into the reality of helping people. When you have to wipe up vomit you may not feel so sure...
2. Where and how do you want to study?
Research all the courses available to you. If you are trying to get into graduate medicine think about the style of learning on the course - many use problem based learning known as PBLwhich requires you to be a self-starter able to manage your own work - this may appeal to you. Some of the 5 year courses are also using this style of learning too. Other courses may have more lecture based teaching. Pick with care! Look at the facilities and the quality of teaching. Do you want to be in a city or in the countryside? London medical schools certainly have a lot to offer in terms of large teaching hospitals and exposure to less common diseases and conditions but you may have long commutes on public transport all over the city on placements in your clinical years.
3. So, you know where you want to apply - do you meet the criteria?
Now is the time to give serious consideration to your ucas form if you haven't done so already. You will need to meet strict grade requirements and lots of applicants will look impressive so make the most of skills you have gained in other jobs in putting forward your case to be a medical student and find someone who is willing to write an eloquent and persuasive reference. If you get one that looks lacklustre try to find another referee. Having said that, it may be that only minimal attention is paid to your carefully crafted personal statement as some medical schools may place most emphasis on the entrance exam and interview. Regardless, you will need to show commitment and demonstrate that you are not seeing the medical profession through rose tinted lenses. Some courses expect at least a year of experience in a caring role. Some students applying to graduate entry courses have worked as health care assistants and others have done nursing. You may not be in a position to get medical experience. If you need to remain in your current job look into volunteering through your employer; they may have schemes that allow you to take some time out of your day to help the local community in some way. Sacrifice some of your weekends to helping others - coaching, befriending the elderly or helping in a hospice can be rewarding and provide useful insights and transferable skills.
4. Can you pass the entrance exams?
If you are applying to a 5 year course then your A Levels will be crucial but find out if there are other entrance tests. Those opting for graduate entry will need to sit UKCAT (http://www.ukcat.ac.uk/) or GAMSAT (http://www.gamsat-ie.org/). Read about the tests and get hold of past papers and practice a timed test. If you don't have a science background don't despair! You can study by yourself from textbooks, do evening courses (eg. A Level Chemistry) or take a distance learning course. There are expensive prep courses but it is perfectly feasible to do this for yourself if you are motivated enough. It may take a year to study to the necessary level alongside a full time job but if this is really for you then you will manage it.
5. Interview Day
You passed the horrid exams and landed an interview. Make sure you prepare thoroughly. This is the final hurdle and the culmination of all you have worked for so don't let it slip away. With a bit of googling you should be able to find lists of suggested interview questions. Go through them and think about answers. Practice mock interviews with a patient friend and get feedback on any annoying fidgety habits you have when nervous. Many interviews will have a panel of people but try to engage them all and make eye contact. Stay polite and calm. Think carefully about your responses and don't be afraid to pause rather than witter on mindlessly. You may be asked to take part in mock scenarios - take these seriously and use your common sense!
Best of luck!
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