Academic Foundation Programme Applications Aisling Longworth & Ione Woollacott Introduce – current 5th years, secured jobs starting this Aug (Camb +KCL), went through AFP application process in 2009.
Overview Why academic medicine? Opportunities and preparation for academia The application process: Forms and interviews Personal experiences
Why academic medicine? Research opportunities Curiosity Challenge Variety Autonomy New advances in patient care Education Public engagement Avoid MTAS Practise interviews Choice over rotations and location
Undergraduate opportunities Research projects and experience of academia: BSc SSCs and audits Work experience placements Presentations and publications Prizes and distinctions Extracurricular activities Talk about dissertation and seminars - reading cutting edge literature BScs Aisling – NHS ethics +SSC, Ione – work experience + SSC publication Presentations + pub – national and international - Aisling
Making the most of yourself! Have confidence in your abilities Preparation CV Contacts – DO NOT be afraid to ask! Amazing opportunities
How to apply: Separate process from MTAS Dean’s Statement May – July in 4th year Independent deaneries and deadlines Info on: http://www.foundationprogramme.nhs.uk/ Dean’s Statement Application forms Interviews Dean’s statements – document on deanery website, signed by Dean,slightly different forms, prepare early
Application forms – content Qualifications Degrees/other qualifications eg PhD, BSc/BA, MSc Prizes (local/national), honours, distinctions or merits Publications, Presentations, Posters SSCs or elective proposals Quartile/ranking Motivation and skills relevant to AFP 150-300 words Career aspirations Overcoming challenges/setbacks Prioritisation, professional behaviour, team-working Teaching/education Non-academic/extracurricular achievement Download from internet, or online, email or post.
Application forms – tactics Ranking jobs Maximise your chances but stick to what you want! Location versus rotation Filling in the form Seek advice about answers Spelling and grammar! Relevance and honesty – answer the QUESTION! Two referees One academic, one clinical Ask early Download from internet, or online, email or post.
Interviews - experiences Reason for application Important academic achievements Academic interests and research Motivation and career aspirations Clinical situations – Problem solving approach Focus on patient management and team working
Job offers Accept, Decline or Hold Clearing Know before MTAS Can only hold ONE at a time Clearing Know before MTAS
Summary Prepare early Make the most of yourself Be aware of deadlines CV Opportunities Contacts Be aware of deadlines GOOD LUCK!
Questions ?