Medical students - tell us about yourself
I thought it would be interesting to get to know our medics a bit better 
so if you feel like it, please answer the questions below:
What year of medicine are you in right now?
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Which area of the country to work in?
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
Have you ever appeared on 24 hours in A&E?
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
so if you feel like it, please answer the questions below: What year of medicine are you in right now?
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Which area of the country to work in?
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
Have you ever appeared on 24 hours in A&E?
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
(edited 8 years ago)
Scroll to see replies
Original post by Captain Jack
I thought it would be interesting to get to know our medics a bit better so if you feel like it, please answer the questions below:
so if you feel like it, please answer the questions below:I've moved this to the Medicine forum for you (although Medicine Community Discussion might be better) the Medical and healthcare professions forum is one of the dumping ground forums that noone ever visits
What year of medicine are you in right now?
Final
What area of medicine do you want to work in?
Emergency
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Emergency/acute care/infectious diseases/tropical medicine
Which area of the country to work in?
Preferably somewhere big and urban, but not grim or boring. Also not too far away from family/friends. You have to be willing to compromise as a med student/doctor, so I try not to get too attached to the "dream" of working in a particular hospital/city for the duration of my training, since that doesn't really happen for most people.
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
Talking to medic friends - a problem shared and all that. Especially over a few drinks.
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
I think I was about 10 or so, but I don't remember a single crystallising eureka moment. I liked reading books about the human body when I was little and if I ever had to go to the GP or hospital, I found it more interesting rather than scary, so I think that's where much of the initial childhood interest stemmed from.
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
No one in my immediate family.
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
Unless something catastropic or highly unexpected happens, I hope to carry on.
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
For the realism - Cardiac Arrest and Bodies
For the comedy - Scrubs
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Used to watch it years ago. It's very unrealistic, so probably a 1. Surgeons don't spend every minute of their working lives in theatre, patient record iPads aren't as ubiquitous as TV makes it seem, and why are the juniors always at arrests or in theatre and never doing paperwork/chasing results/stressing about jobs or exams? Also, why are there never any medical students around unless they're about to cause some sort of major incident or get off with someone inappropriate?
Also, everyone looks way too fresh and un-tired
Final
What area of medicine do you want to work in?
Emergency
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Emergency/acute care/infectious diseases/tropical medicine
Which area of the country to work in?
Preferably somewhere big and urban, but not grim or boring. Also not too far away from family/friends. You have to be willing to compromise as a med student/doctor, so I try not to get too attached to the "dream" of working in a particular hospital/city for the duration of my training, since that doesn't really happen for most people.
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
Talking to medic friends - a problem shared and all that. Especially over a few drinks.
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
I think I was about 10 or so, but I don't remember a single crystallising eureka moment. I liked reading books about the human body when I was little and if I ever had to go to the GP or hospital, I found it more interesting rather than scary, so I think that's where much of the initial childhood interest stemmed from.
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
No one in my immediate family.
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
Unless something catastropic or highly unexpected happens, I hope to carry on.
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
For the realism - Cardiac Arrest and Bodies
For the comedy - Scrubs
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Used to watch it years ago. It's very unrealistic, so probably a 1. Surgeons don't spend every minute of their working lives in theatre, patient record iPads aren't as ubiquitous as TV makes it seem, and why are the juniors always at arrests or in theatre and never doing paperwork/chasing results/stressing about jobs or exams? Also, why are there never any medical students around unless they're about to cause some sort of major incident or get off with someone inappropriate?
Also, everyone looks way too fresh and un-tired
(edited 8 years ago)
What year of medicine are you in right now?
4th year. IT'S NEARLY OVER
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
Interested in Emergency
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Theoretically, I think psychiatry is fascinating. In practice though... not so much. Only so many ward rounds focused around negotiating leave that a body can stand
Which area of the country to work in?
Somewhere rural. My top regions are Wessex, Scotland, Peninsula, Wales, Northern Ireland. And NOT just because of the contracts! I need to egt out of the city
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
I don't, I'm a mess
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
I suppose I would have been around 14. Before then I had wanted to be an engineer because I liked maths. But my brother would have just graduated medical school around then and seemed to be having a good time. Not knowing any engineers or anything about engineering, but knowing at least one happy and successful doctor, I just kind of drifted into it.
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
Just my oldest brother
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
I've actually always wanted to be a writer, but that's not really a viable Plan A career, so it's medicine for now.
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
Scrubs. Though when I was little I had a HUGE crush on Dr Kovac from ER. Phwoar
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Never seen it, couldn't say
Didn't know you were interested in EM Democracy. What appeals to you about it? Whenever I tell people that's my interest they always look at me like I'm crazypants. Though recently I ran into an EM CT2 doing ACCS who told me "Up until about 6months ago I would have told you go for it, it's the best specialty. Now I'd say do ANYTHING else because the career is being ruined", which was rather disheartening...
4th year. IT'S NEARLY OVER
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
Interested in Emergency
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Theoretically, I think psychiatry is fascinating. In practice though... not so much. Only so many ward rounds focused around negotiating leave that a body can stand
Which area of the country to work in?
Somewhere rural. My top regions are Wessex, Scotland, Peninsula, Wales, Northern Ireland. And NOT just because of the contracts! I need to egt out of the city
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
I don't, I'm a mess
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
I suppose I would have been around 14. Before then I had wanted to be an engineer because I liked maths. But my brother would have just graduated medical school around then and seemed to be having a good time. Not knowing any engineers or anything about engineering, but knowing at least one happy and successful doctor, I just kind of drifted into it.
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
Just my oldest brother
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
I've actually always wanted to be a writer, but that's not really a viable Plan A career, so it's medicine for now.
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
Scrubs. Though when I was little I had a HUGE crush on Dr Kovac from ER. Phwoar
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Never seen it, couldn't say
Original post by Democracy
What area of medicine do you want to work in?
Emergency
Emergency
Didn't know you were interested in EM Democracy. What appeals to you about it? Whenever I tell people that's my interest they always look at me like I'm crazypants. Though recently I ran into an EM CT2 doing ACCS who told me "Up until about 6months ago I would have told you go for it, it's the best specialty. Now I'd say do ANYTHING else because the career is being ruined", which was rather disheartening...
Original post by Ghotay
Didn't know you were interested in EM Democracy. What appeals to you about it? Whenever I tell people that's my interest they always look at me like I'm crazypants. Though recently I ran into an EM CT2 doing ACCS who told me "Up until about 6months ago I would have told you go for it, it's the best specialty. Now I'd say do ANYTHING else because the career is being ruined", which was rather disheartening...
Didn't know you were interested in EM Democracy. What appeals to you about it? Whenever I tell people that's my interest they always look at me like I'm crazypants. Though recently I ran into an EM CT2 doing ACCS who told me "Up until about 6months ago I would have told you go for it, it's the best specialty. Now I'd say do ANYTHING else because the career is being ruined", which was rather disheartening...
I've really enjoyed it as a student - it's one of the few placements where I've felt I've been learning at every moment and sometimes helping to make a difference too. I would hope to have a similar experience during foundation years, though like you, I've been told it's terrible as a career and to steer well clear.
I'm not that interested in the long term management of chronic conditions e.g. heart failure, asthma, etc, but I find learning about the acute exacerbations of the same conditions really interesting. Not a big fan of clinics or ward rounds either, but still really enjoy clerkings and presenting patients.
I also really like learning practical procedures and the idea of being a generalist is appealing. All of the EM physicians I've been attached to have been great teachers, and I think it's a specialty which would lend itself well to clinical teaching.
Not going to deny that it's physically tiring and whilst I don't mind night shifts, I don't like it when they yo-yo and leave you feeling jet lagged (new contract looks awful for this) - so I'll be interested to see what I'll make of it (hopefully) once I've qualified.
How about you?
(edited 8 years ago)
What year of medicine are you in right now?
Intercalating (done 2 years of medicine)
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
Pathology/Haematology/Clinical Genetics/Internal Medicine
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Mainly understanding how disease occurs at a molecular level. I'm also interested in regenerative medicine and gene therapy.
Which area of the country to work in?
Scotland preferably, but I'm happy with wherever my interests lead me. As I'm more into academic medicine, would obviously rather work in a big university hospital. New Zealand/Australia is another current consideration.
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
I don't think there's that much unique? (As of yet anyway). Sure it's hard work, but so are many other university-level degrees. Maybe that will change when I go into clinical years though.
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
I don't think there was one defined moment. It has always been something I was considering, and I sort if just grew more into it
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
Oh yes, >10 if you include parents/uncles/aunts/cousins
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
Well I always wanted to do something sciencey. So it was either medicine or pure science/maths. In the end I decided for medicine for reasons that I'm still not fully sure of.
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
House!
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Never seen it haha
Posted from TSR Mobile
Intercalating (done 2 years of medicine)
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
Pathology/Haematology/Clinical Genetics/Internal Medicine
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Mainly understanding how disease occurs at a molecular level. I'm also interested in regenerative medicine and gene therapy.
Which area of the country to work in?
Scotland preferably, but I'm happy with wherever my interests lead me. As I'm more into academic medicine, would obviously rather work in a big university hospital. New Zealand/Australia is another current consideration.
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
I don't think there's that much unique? (As of yet anyway). Sure it's hard work, but so are many other university-level degrees. Maybe that will change when I go into clinical years though.
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
I don't think there was one defined moment. It has always been something I was considering, and I sort if just grew more into it
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
Oh yes, >10 if you include parents/uncles/aunts/cousins
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
Well I always wanted to do something sciencey. So it was either medicine or pure science/maths. In the end I decided for medicine for reasons that I'm still not fully sure of.
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
House!
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Never seen it haha
Posted from TSR Mobile
(edited 8 years ago)
What year of medicine are you in right now?
3rd.
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
Cardiology
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Cardiology
Which area of the country to work in?
Anywhere but England. Preferably Canada. If not, Scotland or Wales will do.
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
I'm not yet in my clinical years so my degree thus far isn't too different to other subjects (lectures, exams etc). The main thing is tiredness and workload, which I just fight with coffee.
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
No, not really. I get bored easily so I wanted a career that was interesting with lots of options. I've never been one of the 'OmG so passionate about medicine' types.
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
No.
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
Decided on medicine at around age 17? Before that I considered being a vet, a wildlife photographer, a researcher etc but not very seriously.
Edit: Just read the question properly. I've had my doubts about medicine. I'll stick out the degree and see where it takes me. I still want to be a doctor, but with the contract fiasco I'll seriously need to consider if it's worth it. Don't know what I'd go into though.
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
I try not to think about medicine in my time off and don't really watch any medical dramas etc.
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Don't watch it, sorry Likely very unrealistic.
3rd.
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
Cardiology
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Cardiology
Which area of the country to work in?
Anywhere but England. Preferably Canada. If not, Scotland or Wales will do.
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
I'm not yet in my clinical years so my degree thus far isn't too different to other subjects (lectures, exams etc). The main thing is tiredness and workload, which I just fight with coffee.
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
No, not really. I get bored easily so I wanted a career that was interesting with lots of options. I've never been one of the 'OmG so passionate about medicine' types.
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
No.
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
Decided on medicine at around age 17? Before that I considered being a vet, a wildlife photographer, a researcher etc but not very seriously.
Edit: Just read the question properly. I've had my doubts about medicine. I'll stick out the degree and see where it takes me. I still want to be a doctor, but with the contract fiasco I'll seriously need to consider if it's worth it. Don't know what I'd go into though.
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
I try not to think about medicine in my time off and don't really watch any medical dramas etc.
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Don't watch it, sorry
Likely very unrealistic.(edited 8 years ago)
What year of medicine are you in right now?
3rd year
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
Paediatrics
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Paediatrics - although I do have a small place in my heart for gastroenterology :P
Which area of the country to work in?
Given the current situation with the contract probably Wales or Scotland! If I end up staying in England, I'd probably work in the Yorkshire and Humber Deanery so I can give something back to the area that trained me.
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
Definitely de-briefing with other medics if there have been any particularly upsetting patients. I think you do slowly develop a way of compartmentalising the emotional side when you're with the patient, but you can't keep it bottled or else you'll have a bit of a meltdown!
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
I actually don't...I didn't ever have an epiphany moment really. At school we had to do a work experience placement in Year 10 for a week which I spent in a GP surgery so I guess it started there.
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
Not a single one - I'm the first in my family to go to university.
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
On the more difficult, tiring and stressful days I daydream of just settling down in a small village somewhere to open a bakery and spend the rest of my days surrounded by cake...I think that's just my emotional happy place though!
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
I stay as far away from them as I can - I have enough Medicine in my life without having it on TV. That and seeing CPR performed on medical TV dramas just makes me really angry - if you're going to do it, do it right!
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Never seen it so I can't comment. I can't imagine it's very realistic because day-to-day ward life really wouldn't make very interesting TV.
3rd year
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
Paediatrics
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Paediatrics - although I do have a small place in my heart for gastroenterology :P
Which area of the country to work in?
Given the current situation with the contract probably Wales or Scotland! If I end up staying in England, I'd probably work in the Yorkshire and Humber Deanery so I can give something back to the area that trained me.
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
Definitely de-briefing with other medics if there have been any particularly upsetting patients. I think you do slowly develop a way of compartmentalising the emotional side when you're with the patient, but you can't keep it bottled or else you'll have a bit of a meltdown!
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
I actually don't...I didn't ever have an epiphany moment really. At school we had to do a work experience placement in Year 10 for a week which I spent in a GP surgery so I guess it started there.
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
Not a single one - I'm the first in my family to go to university.
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
On the more difficult, tiring and stressful days I daydream of just settling down in a small village somewhere to open a bakery and spend the rest of my days surrounded by cake...I think that's just my emotional happy place though!
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
I stay as far away from them as I can - I have enough Medicine in my life without having it on TV. That and seeing CPR performed on medical TV dramas just makes me really angry - if you're going to do it, do it right!
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Never seen it so I can't comment. I can't imagine it's very realistic because day-to-day ward life really wouldn't make very interesting TV.
What year of medicine are you in right now?
5th and final year
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
General Practice or Acute Medicine are current favourites.
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Acute medical problems and their management.
Which area of the country to work in?
Working in South Wales from August.
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
I find it helps to find time to speak to other medics about things that trouble you or even just standard stuff you've seen on placements. It's not the type of thing you can speak to non-medical friends or family members about and so it can be difficult to deal with without having medic friends to chat to.
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
I don't remember when or why. Life would be easier if I hadn't wanted to become a doctor.
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
No.
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
Can't see myself doing anything else.
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
House and Scrubs.
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Not very from the few episodes I have seen.
5th and final year
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
General Practice or Acute Medicine are current favourites.
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Acute medical problems and their management.
Which area of the country to work in?
Working in South Wales from August.
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
I find it helps to find time to speak to other medics about things that trouble you or even just standard stuff you've seen on placements. It's not the type of thing you can speak to non-medical friends or family members about and so it can be difficult to deal with without having medic friends to chat to.
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
I don't remember when or why. Life would be easier if I hadn't wanted to become a doctor.
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
No.
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
Can't see myself doing anything else.
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
House and Scrubs.
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Not very from the few episodes I have seen.
Original post by Democracy
I've really enjoyed it as a student - it's one of the few placements where I've felt I've been learning at every moment and sometimes helping to make a difference too. I would hope to have a similar experience during foundation years, though like you, I've been told it's terrible as a career and to steer well clear.
I'm not that interested in the long term management of chronic conditions e.g. heart failure, asthma, etc, but I find learning about the acute exacerbations of the same conditions really interesting. Not a big fan of clinics or ward rounds either, but still really enjoy clerkings and presenting patients.
I also really like learning practical procedures and the idea of being a generalist is appealing. All of the EM physicians I've been attached to have been great teachers, and I think it's a specialty which would lend itself well to clinical teaching.
Not going to deny that it's physically tiring and whilst I don't mind night shifts, I don't like it when they yo-yo and leave you feeling jet lagged (new contract looks awful for this) - so I'll be interested to see what I'll make of it (hopefully) once I've qualified.
How about you?
I'm not that interested in the long term management of chronic conditions e.g. heart failure, asthma, etc, but I find learning about the acute exacerbations of the same conditions really interesting. Not a big fan of clinics or ward rounds either, but still really enjoy clerkings and presenting patients.
I also really like learning practical procedures and the idea of being a generalist is appealing. All of the EM physicians I've been attached to have been great teachers, and I think it's a specialty which would lend itself well to clinical teaching.
Not going to deny that it's physically tiring and whilst I don't mind night shifts, I don't like it when they yo-yo and leave you feeling jet lagged (new contract looks awful for this) - so I'll be interested to see what I'll make of it (hopefully) once I've qualified.
How about you?
Really similar reasons actually. I don't like the long ward rounds and constant irrelevant shuffling of treatment in medicine. But I'm certainly no surgeon either. I love seeing patients acutely, working out the problem, doing a wide range of, practical procudures, and then never having to see them again. Don't get me wrong, I love people, but I don't really like to get bogged down in complicated stuff. I like the fact that it's intense, tiring, and when you're there you have to be very present, and then when it's done it's DONE and you go home. Nothing better.
I also don't mind working unsociable hours. In many ways I prefer them, I'm a definite night owl and will happily take the extra money and be awake at a time that suits me nicely. The unavoidable shift-work nature is something of a concern. But my ideal plan is to locum for half of the year, and travel the rest. Not sure how viable that is, and everything's up in the air right now.
I don't know, I can't actually see myself doing anything else except maybe GP, and GP doesn't exactly enthuse me.
What year of medicine are you in right now?
Final (my 6th)
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
Orthopaedic trauma
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Major trauma, military medicine, pelvic and acetabular surgery, limb reconstruction
Which area of the country to work in?
Oxford/North east thames/Canada
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
I'm not a hugely emotional person, not a great deal gets to me but when it does i tend to stress exercise
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
When i realised i was going to be too tall to be a RAF fast jet pilot (about 14 years old)
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
No
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
Will most likely stick with it, whether that will be in this country is another question
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
House of course
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Never watched it
Final (my 6th)
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
Orthopaedic trauma
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Major trauma, military medicine, pelvic and acetabular surgery, limb reconstruction
Which area of the country to work in?
Oxford/North east thames/Canada
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
I'm not a hugely emotional person, not a great deal gets to me but when it does i tend to stress exercise
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
When i realised i was going to be too tall to be a RAF fast jet pilot (about 14 years old)
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
No
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
Will most likely stick with it, whether that will be in this country is another question
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
House of course
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Never watched it
Original post by plrodham1
What year of medicine are you in right now?
Final (my 6th)
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
Orthopaedic trauma
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Major trauma, military medicine, pelvic and acetabular surgery, limb reconstruction
Which area of the country to work in?
Oxford/North east thames/Canada
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
I'm not a hugely emotional person, not a great deal gets to me but when it does i tend to stress exercise
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
When i realised i was going to be too tall to be a RAF fast jet pilot (about 14 years old)
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
No
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
Will most likely stick with it, whether that will be in this country is another question
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
House of course
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Never watched it
Final (my 6th)
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
Orthopaedic trauma
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Major trauma, military medicine, pelvic and acetabular surgery, limb reconstruction
Which area of the country to work in?
Oxford/North east thames/Canada
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
I'm not a hugely emotional person, not a great deal gets to me but when it does i tend to stress exercise
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
When i realised i was going to be too tall to be a RAF fast jet pilot (about 14 years old)
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
No
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
Will most likely stick with it, whether that will be in this country is another question
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
House of course
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Never watched it
If you're interested in military medicine and wanted to be in the RAF when you were younger, does this mean you want to join the RAF as an officer when you graduate by any chance?
What year of medicine are you in right now?
4th year.
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
Psychiatry: psychotherapy, or liaison.
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
The field I find most interesting is mental health and psychosocial support in emergencies and humanitarian settings. This includes working with populations who have suffered from psychological trauma such as genocide, mass violence, torture, gender-based violence etc.
Which area of the country to work in?
In the UK: Maudsley London ideally for my training, but with an aim of doing field work or missions in conflict/fragile states in Central Africa and Middle East. Or else relocating to somewhere such as South Africa, or Netherlands.
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
We like to think we suffer from unique pressure but I don't think it's disproportionate to other students of healthcare in particular.
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
Not really. Like a lot of medical applicants I was a good all-rounder but I had no specialist interest in a subject, so medicine seemed a decent enough choice to bank on.
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
Nope.
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
I hope that my career interests in global mental health will allow me to also train as a medical anthropologist and that my work will be a blend of clinical research and social sciences; equally, the option of working more in the humanitarian or global policy field could be a possibility.
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
MSF: Access to the Danger Zone
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Never watched it!
4th year.
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
Psychiatry: psychotherapy, or liaison.
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
The field I find most interesting is mental health and psychosocial support in emergencies and humanitarian settings. This includes working with populations who have suffered from psychological trauma such as genocide, mass violence, torture, gender-based violence etc.
Which area of the country to work in?
In the UK: Maudsley London ideally for my training, but with an aim of doing field work or missions in conflict/fragile states in Central Africa and Middle East. Or else relocating to somewhere such as South Africa, or Netherlands.
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
We like to think we suffer from unique pressure but I don't think it's disproportionate to other students of healthcare in particular.
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
Not really. Like a lot of medical applicants I was a good all-rounder but I had no specialist interest in a subject, so medicine seemed a decent enough choice to bank on.
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
Nope.
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
I hope that my career interests in global mental health will allow me to also train as a medical anthropologist and that my work will be a blend of clinical research and social sciences; equally, the option of working more in the humanitarian or global policy field could be a possibility.
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
MSF: Access to the Danger Zone
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Never watched it!
(edited 8 years ago)
Original post by Democracy
What year of medicine are you in right now?
Final
What area of medicine do you want to work in?
Emergency
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Emergency/acute care/infectious diseases/tropical medicine
Which area of the country to work in?
Preferably somewhere big and urban, but not grim or boring. Also not too far away from family/friends. You have to be willing to compromise as a med student/doctor, so I try not to get too attached to the "dream" of working in a particular hospital/city for the duration of my training, since that doesn't really happen for most people.
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
Talking to medic friends - a problem shared and all that. Especially over a few drinks.
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
I think I was about 10 or so, but I don't remember a single crystallising eureka moment. I liked reading books about the human body when I was little and if I ever had to go to the GP or hospital, I found it more interesting rather than scary, so I think that's where much of the initial childhood interest stemmed from.
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
No one in my immediate family.
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
Unless something catastropic or highly unexpected happens, I hope to carry on.
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
For the realism - Cardiac Arrest and Bodies
For the comedy - Scrubs
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Used to watch it years ago. It's very unrealistic, so probably a 1. Surgeons don't spend every minute of their working lives in theatre, patient record iPads aren't as ubiquitous as TV makes it seem, and why are the juniors always at arrests or in theatre and never doing paperwork/chasing results/stressing about jobs or exams? Also, why are there never any medical students around unless they're about to cause some sort of major incident or get off with someone inappropriate?
Also, everyone looks way too fresh and un-tired
Final
What area of medicine do you want to work in?
Emergency
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Emergency/acute care/infectious diseases/tropical medicine
Which area of the country to work in?
Preferably somewhere big and urban, but not grim or boring. Also not too far away from family/friends. You have to be willing to compromise as a med student/doctor, so I try not to get too attached to the "dream" of working in a particular hospital/city for the duration of my training, since that doesn't really happen for most people.
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
Talking to medic friends - a problem shared and all that. Especially over a few drinks.
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
I think I was about 10 or so, but I don't remember a single crystallising eureka moment. I liked reading books about the human body when I was little and if I ever had to go to the GP or hospital, I found it more interesting rather than scary, so I think that's where much of the initial childhood interest stemmed from.
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
No one in my immediate family.
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
Unless something catastropic or highly unexpected happens, I hope to carry on.
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
For the realism - Cardiac Arrest and Bodies
For the comedy - Scrubs
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
Used to watch it years ago. It's very unrealistic, so probably a 1. Surgeons don't spend every minute of their working lives in theatre, patient record iPads aren't as ubiquitous as TV makes it seem, and why are the juniors always at arrests or in theatre and never doing paperwork/chasing results/stressing about jobs or exams? Also, why are there never any medical students around unless they're about to cause some sort of major incident or get off with someone inappropriate?
Also, everyone looks way too fresh and un-tired
and here I was believing everything about Holby City! My friend works in emergency too, it definitely sounds most interesting but also difficult. He's interested in the more random cases too. I do find it interesting how early people choose medicine, it's such a big decision so young but obviously a great one This thread is already mega interesting as an outsider to the medical community
I've added in an extra very important question: have you ever been on 24 Hours in A&E
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
I don't think there's that much unique? (As of yet anyway). Sure it's hard work, but so are many other university-level degrees. Maybe that will change when I go into clinical years though.
I suppose I was thinking about the emotional strain of dealing with the public and tough things like when someone is made disabled, given bad news, or sadly dies. It's realities of life for everyone but medics are definitely at the front line of that.
I've added in an extra very important question: have you ever been on 24 Hours in A&E
Original post by Asklepios
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
I don't think there's that much unique? (As of yet anyway). Sure it's hard work, but so are many other university-level degrees. Maybe that will change when I go into clinical years though.
I suppose I was thinking about the emotional strain of dealing with the public and tough things like when someone is made disabled, given bad news, or sadly dies. It's realities of life for everyone but medics are definitely at the front line of that.
Original post by Captain Jack
This thread is already mega interesting as an outsider to the medical community
I've added in an extra very important question: have you ever been on 24 Hours in A&E
I suppose I was thinking about the emotional strain of dealing with the public and tough things like when someone is made disabled, given bad news, or sadly dies. It's realities of life for everyone but medics are definitely at the front line of that.
I've added in an extra very important question: have you ever been on 24 Hours in A&E
I suppose I was thinking about the emotional strain of dealing with the public and tough things like when someone is made disabled, given bad news, or sadly dies. It's realities of life for everyone but medics are definitely at the front line of that.
Yeah I've not really had to deal with patients much, and certainly no tough circumstances
Posted from TSR Mobile
Original post by jenigma
If you're interested in military medicine and wanted to be in the RAF when you were younger, does this mean you want to join the RAF as an officer when you graduate by any chance?
Not the RAF but i am currently in the process of joining the army as an officer atm. I only wanted to go RAF to do fast jet and as i got too tall quite early that option was taken away very quickly.
Original post by plrodham1
Not the RAF but i am currently in the process of joining the army as an officer atm. I only wanted to go RAF to do fast jet and as i got too tall quite early that option was taken away very quickly.
Out of curiosity, how tall are you? And why did you choose the Army one over the RAF? I'm considering both right now.
What year of medicine are you in right now?
Gap year between 3rd year and 4th year.
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
GP or ACCS
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Neurology, Systems Pathology, Cardiology, Anatomy
Which area of the country to work in?
If I stay in the UK, it's got to be London. Anywhere else = unacceptable. I want to spend time abroad too, particularly the UAE and/or Australia, Singapore, Malaysia.
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
Listen to lots of music, watch sitcoms and lots of films. Performing arts - have appeared in 2 Bollywood films so far and want to commit to it more seriously in the future. Enjoy the hot weather during revision time. Gym, travel and play sports.
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
Too far back to remember. But it must have been because I lost interest in English Literature and Architecture, which I was interested in before Medicine.
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
Grandmother's cousins are a big family of doctors. My 3rd cousin studies Medicine at Cambridge. No-one in my immediate family but some of my first cousins (younger) hoping to do Medicine in the future.
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
Don't want to be a doctor for the rest of my life. I'm an actor and dancer so I hope to pursue those professionally once I have a degree and/or a few years of work under my belt.
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
House MD, 24 Hours In A&E, Junior Doctors
Have you ever appeared on 24 hours in A&E?
No
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
3
Gap year between 3rd year and 4th year.
What area of medicine do you work in or want to work in?
GP or ACCS
What area of medicine do you find most interesting?
Neurology, Systems Pathology, Cardiology, Anatomy
Which area of the country to work in?
If I stay in the UK, it's got to be London. Anywhere else = unacceptable. I want to spend time abroad too, particularly the UAE and/or Australia, Singapore, Malaysia.
How do you cope with the unique emotional pressures of being a medic?
Listen to lots of music, watch sitcoms and lots of films. Performing arts - have appeared in 2 Bollywood films so far and want to commit to it more seriously in the future. Enjoy the hot weather during revision time. Gym, travel and play sports.
Do you remember the moment you first decided to do medicine? If so, what was it?
Too far back to remember. But it must have been because I lost interest in English Literature and Architecture, which I was interested in before Medicine.
Is anyone else in your family a medic?
Grandmother's cousins are a big family of doctors. My 3rd cousin studies Medicine at Cambridge. No-one in my immediate family but some of my first cousins (younger) hoping to do Medicine in the future.
Do you always plan to be a medic, or do you have a secret second career planned?
Don't want to be a doctor for the rest of my life. I'm an actor and dancer so I hope to pursue those professionally once I have a degree and/or a few years of work under my belt.
What is your favourite medical profession TV show or film?
House MD, 24 Hours In A&E, Junior Doctors
Have you ever appeared on 24 hours in A&E?
No
On a scale of 1 (not real) - 10 (completely real), how realistic is Holby City?
3
(edited 8 years ago)
Original post by jenigma
Out of curiosity, how tall are you? And why did you choose the Army one over the RAF? I'm considering both right now.
I'm 6 foot 5.
To be honest after realising i couldn't be a pilot i left the idea of joining any form of the military behind and it wasn't until last year that i began to reconsider. At that point i chose army based upon the experiences of many of the senior officers at my local det and the potential benefits it could have on my career both clinically and regarding research. At my medical school/local hospitals the RAF isn't advertised so i guess i just never had the exposure.
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