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 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!
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 :)
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.
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.
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.
Hope
Swansea University
Medicine (Graduate Entry), MBBCH
Hi, I'm Hope, a 3rd year Graduate Entry Medicine (GEM) student. My previous degree was in Applied Medical Sciences, also at Swansea. I am very passionate about medicine, but in my spare time like to watch rugby, spend time with my friends and family, walk on the beach and love to cook! I also know a bit about the sports set-up at Swansea, as an ex-international athlete. Look forward to hearing from you.
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.
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!
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.
Manasvi
Brunel University of London
Medicine
Hi, I am Manasvi, I am studying Medicine at Brunel University.
I have completed my high school education in India and my main subjects were Physics, Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics.
Right now I’m in my first year and some of my interests include Anatomy which pertains to the way of teaching here at Brunel.
I intend to explore future opportunities in research and surgery. Feel free to ask me any questions you might have :)
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.
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!
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!
Billie
University of Glasgow
Medicine [MBChB]
Hi there! I’m Billie and currently in my 3rd year of the MBChB course. There’s such a variety of classes you participate in, ranging from anatomy labs to small group discussions, so the course will always keep you on your toes!
Before Medicine, I also did a pre-med course with the university called the ‘Glasgow Access Programme’, which is now called the ‘Gateway to Medical Studies Programme‘ for widening participation students.
I’ve really enjoyed my journey so far in med school and I’m looking forward to the clinical-based years of the course to get some time on the wards and develop more of an idea of what specialty I’d like to pursue!
Ayra
University of Glasgow
Medicine [MBChB]
I'm from Pakistan but moved to the UK during secondary school. I love trying new things and the great outdoors! Not too sure what speciality of Medicine I want to go into but something fast-paced and exciting (I like a challenge). I'm very involved in uni life; I do lot of volunteering, am very involved with various society and other social aspects. Feel free to ask any questions! :)
Georgia
Bangor University
Medical Sciences
Hi, I'm Georgia and i started studying at Bangor Uni in September 2023 after completing my A-levels that summer in Maths, Biology and French! I am originally from Nottingham and i have loved the change from city life to being inbetween the beach and mountains. I am currently studying pharmacology and absolutely love my degree. I have such a passion and get so much enjoyment from studying. I plan to go into postgrad education and then hopefully into a research and development career in labs. Please feel free to ask any question :)
Aleksandra
Bangor University
Graduate Entry Medicine
Currently, I'm focused on surviving my third year of medicine. Outside of that, I'm really interested in nature and like going on long walks when I can! I've also explored the local area and visited lots of interesting places.
Imogen
Swansea University
Medicine (Graduate Entry), MBBCH
Hi! My name is Imogen and I am a current Medical student at Swansea Uni. I studied my BSc in Medical Genetics here too. I love being by the sea (and in it) so spend a lot of my time around the Gower. I am also the captain of our Medics netball team as well as fundraising for coppafeel as part of the Uniboob society. I have been in Swansea for a while so know all the best tips for how to make the most of your time at uni!
Anna
Brunel University of London
Medicine
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!
Gifty
University of Plymouth
BMBS Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery with Foundation (Year 0)
I enjoy studying medicine. It challenges me for the better. I want to make a positive impact in the lives of people no matter where I am as well as support people going through mental health issues.
"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.