Medical Society

A career in medicine, veterinary medicine, dentistry or one of the other allied subjects is something that needs careful consideration and a lot of preparation. Places on these courses are limited and highly competitve with some universities claiming 10 to 12 applicants for each vacancy. Before contemplating such a step, students need to ensure that they are selecting a medical career for the right reasons. Many are beguiled by programmes like Casualty and ER with pretty nurses hanging on their every word and the prospect of large salaries. The reality can be very different. The workload for a young medical student usually comes as a big shock after A levels. University deadlines are sacrosanct and there is a zero tolerance approach to passing exams.

The RGS MedSoc seeks to address these issues so that students who finally accept places at Medical school are more aware of the expectations.

As a member of the MedSoc, a student is given step by step help and advice on applying to Medical school.and includes a consideration of the following:-

• is the student suited - emotionally and academically - to such a rigorous course
• which University - Oxbridge, red brick, campus or one of the new medical schools
• what type of course to apply for - PBL or a more traditional systems based approach, pre-Med or post graduate
• is there an entrance exam - BMAT or UKCAT. What is involved in these.
• advice on work experience
• talks by external speakers on their own specialisms
• visits by medical students to relate their own experiences
• preparation of personal statments
• practice and preparation for interview
• advice on a GAP year if the application is unsuccessful
• continuing support for students who re-apply after they have attained their A levels

Last year there were 13 successful candidates who are now enjoying the challenge of a very worthwhile career choice and we hope that many more students will profit from our help.

Mrs Margaret E.G. Royal (Head of Biology)

Mrs Jill McDavitt (Chemistry and Careers)