What do I do?

Hi! I’m 18 and I have just finished my first year of pharmacy(MPharm) and, to be completely honest, I really don’t think this is what I want to be stuck doing for the rest of my life. The entire time I was on placement in a community pharmacy I found myself thinking about how every time someone asked me what I wanted to do at university, I would just say I didn’t know and completely avoid the question because I didn’t want to think about it. This is ultimately what led me to apply to pharmacy like one week before the UCAS deadline because it seemed like a degree that would have a decent, guaranteed job at the end of it. Unfortunately, I have found the course kind of boring and I just haven’t really been motivated to study at all, though I have been averaging high 2:1s in all the assignments and exams I’ve had so far. Working as a pharmacist seems really monotonous, there’s limited career progression and the idea of working retail makes me feel a little bit ill. I’ve always been a bit more of a hands on person and I prefer having a structure to the day, like, at any point I know exactly where I’m supposed to be and what I’m supposed to be doing. So, I’ve been thinking and doing research about other courses and career options available to me that appeal more to me. I did think about dentistry when I was in S4 (year 11 I think) but, being the lazy person I am, I never did anything about it and I couldn’t be bothered to do the ucat. Now, I’ve realised that this actually is the rest of my life and I need to get a grip in order to actually be happy with how I’m going to spend it.

So, would being a university drop out affect my chances of getting in? Can I apply without dropping out so if I don’t get in, I’ll still have pharmacy to fall back on? Should I just accept that this is all my own fault and I’ll just have to live with it? Idk sorry if this is a silly post

Reply 1

mjflay0923

Your situation isn’t silly at all—it’s quite common for people to question their initial university or career choices, especially when they’ve made those decisions under pressure. It’s great that you’re reflecting on this now and considering what would truly make you happy and fulfilled. Let’s break your questions into manageable parts:

1. Would being a university dropout affect my chances of getting into dentistry?
Not necessarily. Many universities accept applicants who have previously started a degree, especially if you can demonstrate a clear, well-thought-out reason for switching. Dropping out does not automatically disadvantage you as long as you present your case effectively in your application, explaining why dentistry is your true passion and how you’ve arrived at this decision.
However, some courses may have policies around applicants with prior degrees, so you’d need to check the specific requirements of the dental schools you’re interested in. Certain schools might prefer you finish your current degree, while others may accept you as a transfer or a new student.

2. Can I apply to dentistry without dropping out of pharmacy?
Yes, you can apply while still enrolled in pharmacy. This way, you keep pharmacy as a safety net in case your dentistry application isn’t successful. However:

•

You’ll need to balance your pharmacy studies with preparing for the application process, including the UCAT (or BMAT, depending on the universities) and potentially gaining work experience.

•

Be honest in your personal statement and interviews about your current course and your reasons for wanting to change. Admissions teams value self-awareness and determination.

3. Should I just accept this is my fault and live with it?
Absolutely not. Recognizing that pharmacy doesn’t align with your goals is a positive step, not a failure. It’s never too late to pivot toward something you’re passionate about. Many people switch paths, even after years in a career, so identifying this now is a proactive move.

Steps to Consider:

Research Dentistry Programs: Look at entry requirements for different universities. Some might have preferences about previous university study, but others won’t mind.

UCAT Preparation: Start preparing for the UCAT (or BMAT) as early as possible. Strong scores can bolster your application.

Gain Work Experience: Shadow dentists or volunteer in dental settings. It will help solidify your interest and strengthen your application.

Personal Statement: Focus on why dentistry suits you better and how your pharmacy background provides transferable skills (e.g., attention to detail, patient care, scientific knowledge).

Speak to Advisors: Talk to academic advisors or career counselors at your current university. They can help guide your decision-making and support you if you decide to apply elsewhere.

Evaluate Timing: Consider whether applying now (for 2026 entry) or finishing your pharmacy degree first is more feasible for you. Finishing pharmacy could allow you to qualify for graduate-entry dentistry, which might take less time overall.

Key Takeaways:

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It’s not uncommon to change direction, and admissions teams understand that.

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Apply while still in pharmacy if you’re unsure—this keeps your options open.

•

Work hard to create a strong application, demonstrating your commitment to dentistry.

Making a career switch can feel daunting, but it’s a step toward a more fulfilling future. You’ve already shown resilience and determination by reflecting on your situation—trust yourself to navigate this change!

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