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In Focus - Ollie Pentz

Ollie Pentz

Year of Study: Year 4

Year 4 student Ollie Pentz reveals what made him want to study at BSMS, his favourite part of the course so far and his top tips for applying to medical school. Read Ollie's answers in full below or watch his video here.

What made you want to study at BSMS?

The student satisfaction scores. I just thought logically that with medicine it doesn't matter where you study but having a good time did matter to me and, if 95%+ of people loved BSMS, I thought it would be an amazing place to go.

What work experience did you undertake before applying to medicine? How was it beneficial?

I did a variety of shadowing GP and hospital doctors. It was really useful to see if I could actually see myself doing that job in the future and gave me the opportunity to ask any questions I had about the lifestyle.

How did you prepare for the BMAT/UCAT?

I did loads of practice papers and questions. Particularly for the UCAT, practice is so important.

How did you prepare for your interview(s) for medical school?

I had a very long list of interview questions and went through each of them timing myself as I spoke aloud, even when by myself.

What’s your top tip for interviews?

Use every question as an opportunity to sell myself as a potential candidate, linking everything back to my experience and suitability.

Is there a piece of advice you wish you could have given your younger self when thinking about/applying to medicine?

Enjoy looking around other medical schools and going to open days as even if you don't go there, they're very nice to see!

How did you choose which medical schools to apply to?

I didn't want to go to London. I wanted a campus university, and integrated teaching style, so that didn't leave many options.

How did you find/ manage the transition to university?

I think it was really enjoyable and definitely worth making the most of. Frozen vegetables saved my life.

Which part of your course have you found the most interesting so far?

Exploring complex patients' social history. It's really interesting how much of disease is associated with social issues.

What has been your BSMS highlight so far?

Definitely MedSoc societies like the Revue and MedSoc itself (although I am obviously very biased). You get so many great opportunities and meet lovely people from all over the medical school.

What is your favourite thing about studying and living in Brighton?

All the quirky shops, clubs, and pubs which are all near the beach!

Do you have a favourite place to visit in Brighton?

Patty and Bun in the Brighton Lanes does the BEST vegan/meat burgers in the world.

What is your top tip for prospective applicants applying to study medicine?

Do as much preparation as you can for interviews and applications – practise, practise, practise! Once you're in, you're in and definitely make the most of all opportunities available to you.