Getting into Medicine

volunteering + work experience

I'm halfway through my first year of 6th form, and want to get started on getting a place somewhere in medicine in the near future. What are some things I can get started on without putting too much time into?

Get as much practical experience as you can through volunteering/shadowing

At this point in time, the best thing you could be doing is arranging work experience and/or volunteering. Try to contact your local NHS trusts and ask to shadow doctors. Try contacting GP practices to request shadowing the GP. Try volunteering, not just in a care home, but even if it’s in a charity shop, or feeding the homeless. All these experiences aren’t compulsory at all, but are invaluable when, next year, you are at a stage where you are preparing for interview questions and inevitably doing them. Aside from this, focus on your mocks and your predicted grades. Towards the end of year 12, start preparing for the UCAT for at least 4-6 weeks. Good luck in your journey!

To add to the other great tips above, simply reading into medicine, course structures, life as a doctor, topical medical news...
Can help you develop your interest and will later be invaluable for writing your personal statement (though don't worry too much about this for the time being)

Also when you can, read about the NHS in the news and medicine more generally in the news so you know what the current controversies or problems are and advancements. Staffing issues and NHS issues in general are really important to know about.

Are there any good apps you would suggest for looking at these articles?