Medicine is where the science of healing meets the art of compassion, and your knowledge becomes a powerful tool to make a meaningful impact on people's lives.
Embarking on a medical journey is like unlocking a world where science meets empathy. You'll dive into the mysteries of the human body, learn about diseases, and explore the latest medical technology. But it's not just textbooks and labs. Studying medicine sets you on a path with many career options. Imagine becoming a specialist in surgery, paediatrics, or even shaping health policies. And you're not just limited to hospitals – there are opportunities for research, teaching, and making a big impact on healthcare. So, if you're up for a journey where every day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a difference in people's lives, medicine might just be your calling.
The impact you could make
Play a crucial role in alleviating suffering and restoring health in communities.
Through research, have the potential to drive advancement in healthcare that can have a lasting impact on the field of medicine.
Directly save lives through accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and surgical interventions.
Hi, I'm Anna and am part of the first cohort at Brunel Medical School. I can give insight into the application process, how the programme is like, and anything in between - but also happy to chat about anything university related!
Aditya
University of Glasgow
Medicine [MBChB]
Hello everyone, This is Aditya. I am a 2nd Year international medical student at the University of Glasgow. My aspiration is to become a cardiologist with a special interest in interventional cardiology and cardiac physics. I am open to any questions you guys might want to ask about the university, the medical school, or even the city and how it’s been adapting to a new culture as an international student :)
Justyna
University of Aberdeen
Medicine MBChB
Hi! My name is Justyna and I’m a graduate medical student from London. I completed my first degree in Biomedical Science, which led to my growing interest in cancer therapies and infectious diseases. I would also like to explore the potential career in anaesthetics. Outside of medical school, I like to lift weights at the gym or practice karate. I am learning Korean and Japanese and I love cooking/ baking various foods from these countries. I enjoy exploring new things and travelling the world so I am planning to do some of my working experience abroad.
Toqa
University of Aberdeen
Medicine MBChB
Hi, I am Toqa! An aspiring doctor with a passion for learning. I am eager to share my experiences and provide insight into life at University. Don't hesitate to ask me any questions!
Alaa
University of Aberdeen
Medical Sciences PhD
I am Alaa, a Medical Doctor, I made the decision to embark on an academic journey through pursuing a PhD in Anatomy. Driven by a desire to delve deeper into the intricacies of the human body. I am thrilled to make a contribution to the world of education and medical research.
Aliya
City St George's, University of London
Radiography (Radiotherapy and Oncology) BSc (Hons)
Hi I’m Aliya! and i’m a third year student at city university . Killing cancer with radiation – that’s the heart of what I’m studying as a radiotherapy student! I’m passionate about making a difference in patients’ lives. I have joined city through clearing and it was the best choice. I love sharing my journey to others and helping out with university experiences - whether it’s choosing a course , balancing studies or finding the best coffee on campus ;)
Albert
University of East Anglia UEA
Medicine
I'm Albert, a second year medical student at UEA from Vietnam. Outside of academia, I enjoy cycling, playing musical instruments, and walking in nature.
Lithmi
University of Aberdeen
Medicine MBChB
Hi! I'm Lithmi and I’m currently a final year medical student. If you’re a school leaver and starting Medicine right after graduating school it can be quite challenging, so feel free to bombard me with any questions about the big shift! I’ve also travelled over 8000km to be in Aberdeen so if you’re wanting to know about the experience of settling into a new city far away from home, about the course, or even just living in Aberdeen, I’m here to answer any questions you have!
Looking forward to helping you out!
Aia
City St George's, University of London
Radiography (Radiotherapy and Oncology) BSc (Hons)
Hi, I’m Aia, a 3rd-year radiotherapy student at City, University of London. I applied through clearing and have enjoyed my uni experience. My background includes A levels in Psychology, History and Biology. If you have any questions about radiography or City, St George’s, don’t hesitate to reach out, I am more than happy to help!
Sarah
University of Sussex
Medicine BMBS
Hi there! I’m Sarah, a third year medical student at Brighton and Sussex medical School. I am a mature student having worked for the UK Government for the past ten year, and a graduate, completing my first degree in Medical Neuroscience here at the University of Sussex. It really feels like I have come full circle now that I am back here studying medicine!
I hope to become a GP once I finish my degree, but we get so much exposure to different specialities I am also excited to explore. I enjoy yoga and cold water swimming which is great as I live by the sea for the first time!
Alex
Swansea University
Medicine (Graduate Entry), MBBCH
I previously studied Applied Medical Sciences at Swansea from 2018-2021. I have a keen interest in emergency and pre-hospital medicine, as well as anaesthetics and intensive care medicine. I am currently part of the lifesaving club, where we train 3 times a week, and compete against other universities across the UK. I also work part time as a call handler for 111 Wales.
Niamh
Swansea University
Medicine (Graduate Entry), MBBCH
Hi! My name is Niamh and I am a former Applied Medical Science student currently studying medicine at Swansea University. Making the move from secondary to university can be a daunting experience and so I am happy to be a part of the Unibuddy scheme to alleviate any worries and answer any questions that prospective students may have about life here in Swansea University.
Denver
University of Glasgow
Medicine [MBChB]
Hello! I'm Denver, I study Immunology/Medicine at the University of Glasgow. I'm 20 and I've got a life long passion on the study of Immunology and Infectious diseases. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions, particularly for courses within the Life Sciences, Medicine and also generally anything related to the University of Glasgow. I'm quick to respond and happy to take on any type of questions :)
Maira
Swansea University
Medicine (Graduate Entry), MBBCH
Hello, I'm Maira! I'm a 2nd-year medical student at Swansea University, having moved here from Greece three years ago. With a degree in Medical Genetics, I'm deeply interested in the intersection of genetics and medicine and I'am currently involved in medical education research. Outside my studies, I am a Senior Student Ambassador for the university, and I'm passionate about travel, scuba diving, books, and theatre. At home, I'm kept company by a dog and five cats. My goal is to pursue a career in academic medicine. Excited to connect here and answer any questions you may have! Let's chat!
Nneoma
University of East Anglia UEA
Medicine
I am an aspiring doctor of emergency medicine. My past experiences are an amalgam of volunteer work and mentoring roles which drive my ambition to become a doctor and be a part of organizations such as Médicins sans Frontières to have an active role in healthcare where it is needed most.
Sarah
University of Aberdeen
Medicine MBChB
Hello, I'm a third year medical student at the University of Aberdeen! I am studying medicine as my second degree, with my previous degree being in Biomedical Sciences at the University of Dundee!
Karen
University of Aberdeen
Medicine MBChB
Hey! I'm a current final year medical student, interested in neurology, cardiology, MedTech and medical education. I'm an international student that grew up in Dubai and Kuwait but I'm ethnically Indian. I would be happy to answer all your questions about the University, my studies, student life, or anything else.
Sara
University of Glasgow
Medicine [MBChB]
Hi, I'm Sara and I've really enjoyed my time at the university so far, its been lovely to meet so many different people and enjoy student life! I know it can seem a little daunting at first but there are lots of events and societies organised to meet new people and have fun! Personally I like to bake, read and I'd love to travel and explore new cultures. After I've completed my degree, I have an interest in pediatrics , however, I'm still very uncertain at this stage- (let's hope I survive my exams first..)
Carolyn
Brunel University of London
Medicine
I am from Taiwan, and I am now a 3rd-year MBBS student at Brunel Medical School. My special interests in medicine include Immunology and Neurology.
I chose to study Medicine because I love science and art, and Medicine is the perfect combination of both. I particularly love the Brunel MBBS Team-Based Learning model (TBL) as it guides my learning journey as a medical student very well. The early placement opportunity since Year 1 has been the most rewarding learning experience for me.
Reuben
University of Lincoln
Medicine - BMBS
Hi! My name is Reuben I am happy to share my experiences about studying medicine at the University of Lincoln with you! I can tell you about my course and school, facilities on campus, student life and social activities. If your question is not about Medicine please choose the relevant buddy to speak to, or email enquiries@lincoln.ac.uk for more help. Please note, I am unable to help with the specifics of your application. Thanks!
"Knowledge of clinical practice, [which] teaches more clinical skills in dealing with patients and identifying diseases."
Second year medicine student, University of Edinburgh
Example assignment
"We do assessments called OSCEs which are quite fun sometimes. We basically role play a medical student-patient stimulation and it's good experience practising taking histories."
Second year medicine student, University of Leicester
Subjects it's useful to have studied first
Some medicine courses or apprenticeships will have requirements for previous qualifications in certain subjects. Entry requirements vary, so always check with the provider.
Biology
Chemistry
Hard skills you'll develop
Ability to gather and interpret clinical data
Technical competence in medical procedures
Ability to critically evaluate medical literature
Soft skills you'll develop
Adaptability and resilience
Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams
Empathy and compassion
Careers: Where it can take you
Find out more about your career prospects from studying medicine. The following information is based on a specialist medical practitioner role.
Studying medicine isn’t just for aspiring doctors. You could put your medical expertise to creative use by becoming a Medical Media Producer. In this role, you blend your understanding of healthcare with media production skills, creating engaging and informative content. Whether developing educational videos, hosting health podcasts, or contributing to health documentaries, you're the bridge between medical expertise and public understanding, making complex health topics accessible to diverse audiences.
Check out live apprenticeship vacancies in health and science.
Explore further
Go deeper into topics around medicine with the following:
YouTube – Ninja Nerd
Follow this channel for interesting videos on some of the topics you might study in medicine.
Podcast
Ever wondered what it’s like to be a medical student? The Sharp Scratch podcast gives a fascinating insight by talking to real students, junior doctors, and guest experts.
Netflix series – The Surgeon’s Cut
This series showcases innovation and compassion in the medical sphere.
Application advice
Whether it's personal statement tips or what to write in a cover letter for an apprenticeship application, our application advice will help you get ahead in your medicine journey.
Skills, experiences and interests to mention
Have you ever thought about talking to your GP about their role?
Maybe you’ve volunteered in a care home so you’ve seen first-hand the typical needs of residents.
Talk about your academic achievements, particularly in the sciences.
Demonstrate your problem-solving skills and critical thinking, whether that’s through a school project, extracurricular activity or a real-life experience.
Do you have any personal reflections on a particular healthcare experience that influenced your decision to choose medicine?
Occupational therapists empower people to overcome the difficulties they face with living independently. They improve the quality of life for people living with disabilities, illnesses, traumas, ageing, and long-term conditions.
Prosthetists and orthotists use the latest technology to transform the lives of patients who need prosthetics or aids. They empower people to move, run, walk or simply stand independently.
Diagnostic radiographers use state-of-the-art technology to diagnose patients and make sure they receive the right treatment to help them on their road to recovery.