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In Focus - Yasmin Dhuga

Yasmin Dhuga

Year of Study: Intercalating

Yasmin tells us about her work experience, discusses her tips for preparing for BMAT and reveals her BSMS highlight so far.

What made you want to study at BSMS?

You get the opportunity to go on a variety of placements early in the course. BSMS is really highly ranked for student satisfaction - this really shows too when you begin your studies as they are very supportive! BSMS is a relatively small medical school compared to a lot of the other medical schools out there. Finally, we are right by the seaside!

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

I undertook a 2-week hospital placement which helped to confirm that I wanted to be a doctor as I could to picture myself doing the jobs that the doctors were doing. I volunteered in a nursery for a month and at the British Heart Foundation. Both helped me to develop my confidence in talking to a range of people and having to adapt to suit their individual needs. I also worked as a phlebotomist in my gap year which enabled me to develop a lot of skills required as a medical student/ doctor e.g. empathy, working in a team. I was then able to talk about these in my personal statement and the interview stage.

How did you prepare for the BMAT/UCAT?

I went through my old GCSE books and then used every past paper available.

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

I practised everyday - with friends, family and even on my own. I also bought ‘Medical School Interviews: A Practical Guide to Help you Get That Place at Medical School’ by George Lee which was very helpful.

What’s your top tip for interviews?

Make sure you have an example for all the core skills required to become a doctor. Also, from being an interviewer, I would say when you are in your interview, make sure you stick to the question being asked as that is what is going to score you points.

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

Don’t give up! I didn’t get a place at medical school the first-time round which was very demoralising but getting a place at medical school is always very competitive, so it is important to stay determined, persevere and you will eventually get to where you want to be.

How did you choose which medical schools to apply to?

To be honest I didn’t have a lot of options as my GCSE’s and UKCAT score were not too great. I just applied to my strengths.

How did you find/manage the transition to university?

Initially it was very difficult as it was the first time I had moved away from home but then when you’re at university there’s so much to do and you are always constantly busy. Within no time it’s the end of term and you are ready for the holidays.

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

Being on the wards, taking histories and examining patients, as you finally start to feel like a doctor.

What has been your BSMS highlight so far?

Th BSMS Halfway There Ball; Medical school is a lot longer than most other degrees and you will see all of your friends from school graduating whilst you still have another 2 or 3 years left, but the Halfway There Ball makes you look back at how far you have come and appreciate all the experiences and opportunities you’ve had at medical school.

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

Being right by the seaside! The hospital is right by the seaside so is nice to leave placement and chill on the beach for a while.

Do you have a favourite place to visit in Brighton?

The seaside!

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

Apply to your strengths and prepare as much as you can for your interview. You can anticipate what a lot of the questions will be about so having been over these multiple times will reduce the pressure on the actual interview day.