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In Focus - Harmanleen Singh

Harmanleen Singh

Year of Study: Year 4

Fourth year student Harmanleen Singh discusses the transition to university level study, preparing for medicine interviews, and the variety of societies to get involved with at medical school.

What made you want to study medicine?

My interest in new technologies and treatments as well as helping/ caring for patients.

How did you choose what medical schools to apply to?

By looking at entrance requirements, course structure/ contents, and my own personal preference.

What made you want to study at BSMS?

It had the early clinical exposure that I was looking for, as well as one of the best student satisfaction rates.

What has been your favourite part of the BSMS Medicine course?

I’ve really enjoyed learning clinical skills and practising during placements.

How did you prepare for interviews?

I used the medic portal to keep up to date with medical news and learn about relevant topics for interviews such as ethics. I also reviewed my personal statement for things I could talk about when asked about my own experiences. My top tips would be to make sure you feel confident going in. Make sure to use up the entire time in the interview- avoid silence so that you can maximise the marks you get.

Any advice for managing the transition to university?

There will be a lot of stuff you won’t understand in lectures - try to read up on it either before or after the lecture to make sure you actually understand the content. Try to schedule your own time for independent study/ revision and time for hobbies/ sports/ leisure.

Are you involved in any sports or societies?

I’ve been involved in Renal Society, where we run revision and career sessions. Walking and Hiking Society has been great for really nice walks and hikes all over Brighton and Sussex. Oh and dog walking society is really good if you like dogs or miss your dog(s)!

What has been your BSMS highlight?

During my A&E placement, I had a chance to go to clerk patients independently in EACU - you get a chance to genuinely help the doctors as they have a lot of patients to see.

If you could go back in time to give one tip to your younger self, what would it be?

Plan ahead and don’t leave everything to the last minute.