Amika, INTO St. George’s University of London graduate
Interested in a career in medicine? Many of INTO’s International Foundation in Medical, Biomedical and Health Care Science students progress to Medicine at St. George’s, University of London. But what’s the key to a successful progression? Vanessa Koloko asks two of our star graduates, Amika and Moyukh, to share their top tips…
1. Study, study, study!
Amika and Moyukh say: If you want a career in medicine, then be prepared to work very hard. For instance, to progress to St. George’s from the INTO Foundation programme, you have to maintain a score of at least 75% – that way, you’re almost certain to reach the offer benchmark.
2. Gain practical work experience
Amika and Moyukh say: Try to gain relevant practical work experience. Our INTO team arranged work placements for us and this was very useful. However, it’s also a good idea to gain experience in a health or medical setting before even starting a foundation programme.
Moyukh, INTO St. George’s University of London graduate
3. Prepare for the UKCAT
Amika and Moyukh say: If you want to train to become a doctor in the UK then you have to pass the UKCAT, an entrance test for studying Medicine at university. We suggest researching it in detail by reading two or three books on the subject. Also, our INTO Foundation programme helped us to prepare as we did practice exams in class and got to consult with our teachers. The UKCAT website also has useful information.
4. Practice for your university interview
Amika and Moyukh say: You should prepare for your university interview like you would for an exam. Try to gain a sound knowledge of the UK medical system by watching the news and reading newspapers. One of the great things about the INTO Foundation programme is the Professionalism and Study Skills module, where you get to spend hours doing practice questions and scenarios. We really explored all the competency skills that St. George’s were looking for, so were well ahead of some of our peers. Also, the St. George’s website provides useful information about interviews.
5. Take advice from your teachers
Amika and Moyukh say: Try to develop a good relationship with your teachers – they’re one of the best resources you’ll have. Always consult with them to make sure you’re on the right track. Your teachers are the ones to turn to for advice on assignments, exams and good interview techniques. Our INTO teachers really wanted us to succeed in having a medical career.
6. Stay focused on your goal
Amika and Moyukh say: Success is really up to you – it’s all in your hands. When your hard work has paid off and you’re finally accepted to Medicine, it feels amazing!
Read about a day in the life of a trainee doctor at INTO St. George’s, University of London.
Find out more about pursuing a career in medicine via the International Foundation in Medical, Biomedical and Health Care Sciences at INTO St. George’s, University of London.
