My story – one of my biggest challenges was to stay on track. I procrastinate and end up having to work under pressured deadlines. What has helped me study for medicine is developing my own methods and using resources that are more visual than verbal. I prefer making flowcharts of important topics and use key words for memory. I still struggle with memorisation, so my independent study focusses on repetition. Independent study skills are constantly changing as your learning needs change, so be flexible. Don’t be afraid to approach your personal tutors or lecturer to help formulate a study plan to keep you motivated.
Remember, you are the master of your fate – motivate yourself in unique ways that are feasible to you. I hope these tips can help with your own personal study skills and I wish all the best to the new students starting university this September!
Ruchika Yadav – Swansea Student Ambassador – 3rd year Medical Student