Working as a doctor, living as a patient - Monocular Doctor, Dr Harriet Stark So began the following few years of hospital visits, operations, eye drops and patches. At that time, my parents did not know what vision I would have or what sort of life I would be able to lead. Despite this, they instilled in me that I was capable and that I could do anything I put my mind to. This has always stayed true to my heart. I’ve remained under ophthalmology to this day and had other diagnoses from other specialities along the way. No matter the list of my past medical history, I have always remained focu ..read more

When I tell people I am a yoga teacher normally the first thing they say is ‘oh I couldn’t do yoga! I’m not flexible!’ There are so many misconceptions about yoga so let’s start with a bit of myth-busting. You do not need to be flexible to practice yoga! It’s hard to miss the images on Instagram of people contorting their bodies or doing impossible arm balances, and I will admit, sometimes that’s yoga. But I want people to see that there is so much more to it. The practice of yoga can actually improve both your physical and mental health.    I’m a full-time medical student ..read more

In our most recent podcast episode, we had the pleasure of speaking to 4th year medical student Tash Binnie, who is known as ‘tash_themedic’ on Instagram. Here, she has over 11,000 followers and has gained immense popularity for her candid posts about her experiences with mental health, where she strives to destroy the stigma and taboo surrounding these discussions.   Mental health amongst health professionals and medical students, is a topic that is often overlooked. As Tash rightfully points out in this episode, this is often due to the misinformation surrounding the GMC and the unreali ..read more

Becoming a mum during medical school- am I mad?   “You can’t have a baby during med school!” Oh how many times did I hear this? Lots. Ok, I admit, it’s not the ‘normal’ route through medical school, and most people probably do think I’m a tad mad, but I hope by the time you get to the end of reading this, I can convince you that it really was the best decision I ever made. More importantly, if you are thinking of starting a family whilst training to be a doctor, then I am here to reassure you that all will work out just fine.   When I found out I was pregnant in my third year of medi ..read more

  In our most recent podcast episode, we had the pleasure of speaking to Hazal and Lydie, who are the two founders of ‘Journey2Med.’ You can listen to the podcast here Not only are these incredible second year medical students smashing medical school, they are also taking YouTube by storm documenting their journey towards becoming a doctor, whilst advocating for a re-definition of the archaic medical student stereotype. .   What does it take to gain a place at medical school and become a doctor? Thoughts that come to mind include being a hard worker with a keen interest in science, g ..read more

  OUT NOW: Our 5th podcast episode, ft. Dr Ellis:  listen here For this week’s podcast, we are extremely excited to introduce our first guest! Please give a warm welcome to Dr Tamsin Ellis (@climateGP.) Dr Ellis is a newly qualified GP from North London, who is passionate about spreading the word about the impact climate change is having on healthcare and more importantly, what we, as healthcare professionals can do about it.   The impact of the climate on our health You may not always consider the impact climate change is having on your very own health. Afterall, you only ever ..read more

I did it… I got in! My ultimate goal has been achieved. After all the celebrations have ended I somehow feel slightly empty. The main dominating factor of my whole life since my first application in 2012 has suddenly disappeared, leaving space, it’s uncomfortable yes, but warmly welcomed. In some ways I feel like I’ve come to the end of my journey, but really it is only just beginning of a much more exciting one, with greater and more impressive goals to be achieved.. I hope. Perhaps that was a little bit deep but this is my first blog post after all!    When I failed to get any inte ..read more

After 5 applications to Medicine between us it’s safe to say we are veterans of the whole process. Applying for medical school is a total minefield so it’s not surprising if you’re confused, distressed or disheartened by failed attempts. There is loads of advice out there about what you should do for work experience or what you should put in your personal statement. Some of it is conflicting and often overwhelming. To try and set the record straight here are our top tips for those considering medicine or applying to medicine in the near future.    Number 1 - Play The System &nbs ..read more