Mentoring the Youths

Before uni broke up, I saw a note in the UCL Medsoc Newsletter advertising a mentoring scheme for A Level students from "disadvantaged" backgrounds. I personally loathe the term disadvantaged, it's different, but it's not a disadvantage. Being poorer offers some difficulties, but I think it also offers some advantages as well. (such as an understanding of the value of money, a strong work ethic, and an appreciation of what you have)

I come from a "disadvantaged" background (grrr) in that I received free school meals and neither of my parents went to university. When I was applying for medicine, I felt a lot of the advice given to me was aimed at private school kids, who had families who could afford these medical taster courses, or who had connections in interesting medical specialities, and who had experience of the university application process/culture.

Naturally, I jumped at the chance to help these kids have the best application and chance to get into medical school. The organisation running the course is IntoScience, and they have recently opened a separate organisation called IntoMedicine. The students involved in the course will be shadowing consultants and working on the wards of UCH for a week. This is the most amazing opportunity for these kids! I had a quick look at the timetable and had major green eyes! They get to spend a day in oncology surgery the lucky buggers! I can only hope this opportunity gives these students the boost they need in their application, especially when medical school only gets more competitive every year! :(

I emailed the coordinator, and was asked to prepare a talk on; my personal journey into medicine, my experience of placements, UCAS tips, and professionalism.

Now, I want to share my wonderful insight with you! The first session was just an introduction and aimed to prepare the students for their time on the wards (such as preparing them for the difficult things they may see on the ward). Stay tuned for more information, and hopefully I will have a chance to meet up with the students later to discuss their experience, and what they gained from it!