17th March 2010 Pursuing a Career in Medicine

Why medicine?

Is medicine the right career choice for you?  Self assessment  Exploration  Decision  Plan B (and C)

Finding out more… Some useful websites:  BMA: Becoming a Doctor (see helpful downloadable pdf document with application information including all medical school entrance requirements)  New NHS Medical careers website  NHS careers  Dundee university careers service  Tayside Centre for General Practice Careers website

Preparing to Apply  Academic  Personal achievements and experiences  Work experience  Personal statement  UCAS  UKCAT (or BMAT)

Recruitment guidance Medical Schools Council document: Guiding Principles for the Admission of Medical Students Principles-Medical-Students.aspx

Rating applications Stage 1: Academic score and referees report for professional assessment score Stage 2: Score for medical experience, non academic achievement and evidence of adversity (personal statement) Stage 3: UKCAT factor

Preparing for Interview  Homework  Homework!  Homework!! ….back to resources

Dundee Medical School Interview Process Multiple Mini Interview 10 stations of 7 minutes each The domains this assessment will seek to cover are:  Interpersonal communication and empathy  Teamwork  Preparation (career/local curriculum/learning styles)  Critical thinking  Ethical perspective/fairness/respect  Personal statement/integrity check/community involvement Scoring is based upon three ratings per station: one for the station content or substance of the candidate’s response, another for the interpersonal communication demonstrated by the candidate, and a third for the global assessment of the candidate’s suitability as a medical student.

Key Messages  Choose medicine for the right reasons  Learn more about yourself and your career choice to confirm your decision  Seek out and take every opportunity for relevant experiences and continue to reflect on your career choice  Prepare thoroughly to ensure a strong application  Do your homework before any interviews

Good Luck!