Applying to study Medicine can be quite challenging. As a graduate, there different requirements you need to meet, depending on what type of course you choose to apply to. It can be a very daunting process, but the end result is very rewarding and worth all the effort.

Post graduation

A few months after graduating, the Lancaster university careers team contacted me and offered the opportunity to use their graduate coaching scheme.  I was sceptical at first wondering how much of a difference the coaching would make - but it turned out to be a very valuable experience, that developed my self - esteem and prepared me for my short and long - term goals. My sessions focused around my personal health and wellbeing, the kinds of activities / work I had been participating in and where I wanted to be in the future.

The Coaching process

The coaching encouraged me to look at the bigger picture. At the time, I was volunteering for the London Baptist Association whilst simultaneously working in Care. For some reason, I struggled to piece together how my volunteering and care work both developed key skills that I’d need for medicine. But my coach helped me to realised the value and skills I gained in my experiences, something that I had been tremendously overlooking. I also had the opportunity to have mock interviews to help me improve my technique and answer questions with a better structure. It raised my awareness about the importance of critique your own performance, no mater how cringeworthy it may be. I learned a lot about myself during this whole process and it felt great to be invested in by such encouraging coaches.

Success after the struggle

My journey into medicine has been an arduous process. It has taken me 3 attempts over 5 years in total, but I finally received a place to study Medicine this September (2021). It has not been easy at all, but I will say that making use of all resources available to me made all the difference this time around. 

I want to encourage others that are in a similar position to me. Even those in different fields. Be open to seeking help from others. I consider myself to be quite shy and apprehensive about doing this. But through this coaching process I have developed significantly. It has opened my eyes to the opportunities of support that are out there. Be open to saying yes when an opportunity for development arises.

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Nosa graduated from Lancaster university with a Biochemistry degree in 2019. Since then she has been working in Care and volunteered as an intern with the London Baptist Association. She has also recently been appointed as a Charity trustee for the London Baptist association.

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Disclaimer

The opinions expressed by our bloggers and those providing comments are personal, and may not necessarily reflect the opinions of Lancaster University. Responsibility for the accuracy of any of the information contained within blog posts belongs to the blogger.