Hey!
A lot of negative opinions about George's there lol! Not sure who has said this but would love to clear it up. I will answer it according to each question:
1. Music facilities are great. We do have a music room, whenever I walk past it I hear nothing when people are playing i.e. not heard people telling them to quieten down. We also have lots of societies for music and events such as Tooting show, Fashion show and Diwali show where everyone with musical abilities (there are A LOT of talented musicians at George's). And if this doesn't tickle your fancy then you can partake in activities in universities in London in general (one of the perks of being part of University of London). I hope that answers your queries around music
2. We don't have a gym facility however we have a partnership with Tooting Leisure centre where you can get swimming, sauna, courts, gym etc all for £16 (normal amount would be £50). So I think it's a pretty sweet deal. We also have an indoor sports hall where a lot of our sports do happen i.e. basketball, cricket. Places like Wimbledon are also utilised for sports courts access i.e. for hockey/netball courts use!
3. Unsure about the languages part but I do know there are quite a few societies that do teach you languages. Would recommend emailing the University if you are itching to know about this though!
4. To be honest, I think one of the best things about St. George's is that it is a healthcare University. An even better thing is that it is located inside a Hospital. You are around healthcare from the get go and can meet and network with HCPs from day dot. It's honestly how you take it. The campus may be small but I think it depends on the person, what they would like. Tooting is literally St. George's campus though with that being said, students live around this area and Tooting becomes your campus! St. George's also has a community feel due to people looking out for you a lot (much to do with our Mum's and Dad's scheme!). Feel free to explore other Universities though if this doesn't appeal to you.
5. This is a bit of a surprise to me! Very easy to engage with other Universities and their events. Not sure what you mean by the SGUL reputation but from what I know and from quite a bit of statistics, SGUL produces competent, well rounded graduates who are not only good with their clinical skills, but with their communication also. People excel academically, socially and strive to become leaders who are challenging the problems of the world. One of our graduates has met with Michelle Obama to address gender equality, another student has created Mind the Gap (which has received international recognition due to its focus on equality, diversity and inclusion especially with BAME and their health problems) and there are so many more students I can give further examples of! So to me, I think St George's reputation is quite something and definitely something to be proud of.
6. Unsure what you mean by comparing it to Barts - I'm sure Barts is an amazing medical school.
7. Admin is a problem everywhere if I am honest; but with COVID I suppose it has become even more difficult with staff shortages etc. Again not something I can comment on.
8. Electives - I'm in my 4th year so I wouldn't know but will find out and get back to you! In hindsight, a lot of my friends have gone abroad for their electives - India, Malaysia, Singapore, USA, Nepal. So it would seem there are a lot of international opportunities if I am honest!
9. No one has complained about Foundation training process. In fact, last week we had a talk about Final year and UKFPO applications (4-5 months before applications open!). We also have a designated person who we contact should we have any difficulties.
10. Sport: we have many societies - literally ranging from fencing to cricket. And if there isn't a society you like, you can make one. You can also join University of London sport events - fencing, hockey, karate and a few other sports take place in central London in conjunction with other Universities. So you basically get all the perks of being in central London
11. There are lots of places to eat during lunch: student union bar, canteen, 2nd floor rooms. Library: sure during exam time it gets busy but spaces to become available. Also we have three computer rooms and plenty of personal study spaces on the 5th floor, 4th floor, 2nd floor, 1st floor and basement.
Hope this answers your questions - have answered as truthfully as possible! Ultimately it is your decision where you would like to go and what you are looking for from a University. The teaching style, extracurriculars and people matter a lot so I can completely understand your concern. Whatever you choose, I hope you enjoy your medical school experience - it only happens once!
Best Wishes,
MJ
4th Year MBBS
Official Uni Rep St. George's