Communication, Empathy, Organisation, Resilience…

On Tuesday 22nd January, we welcomed Lower Sixth and Upper Fifth students and parents to a Medicine Admissions Evening. The event was aimed at those interested in applying to medical school, in order to give them an overview of what to expect from a medical degree and what admissions tutors are looking for. We hosted several visiting speakers to share their expertise and debunk some myths! Professor Richard Holland from Leicester Medical School and Dr Afshan Ahmad from Aston Medical School explored the qualities that make a good doctor, discussed the structure of their degree programmes and talked us through the process of applying to medical school including how to present yourself as a strong candidate. Old Edwardian, Dr Emily Russell gave a lively presentation on the realities of life as a medical student, whilst also talking about her current role as a junior doctor. We also heard from Old Edwardian, Dr Sarah Benn and Dr Iftikhar Ahmad, who gave perspectives on working as experienced clinicians in their respective specialisms of General Practice and Psychiatry. The overall consensus was that medicine is a fantastic, yet challenging, profession in which to work; it stimulates intellectual curiosity and provides a varied and unpredictable working day! One caveat that all speakers agreed on: those aspiring to become doctors should do so for the right reasons. We would like to thank our visitors for taking the time to inform and inspire our students.