Year 9 help please read..want to become a future doctor or midwife need advice on school things.?

Hiya! I'm a fifth year medical student in Cardiff ATM. GCSE - You will basically need as many A* as possible.

I got 8A* and didn't get any offers, I got in off the waiting list. Many universities have a GCSE grade cut off for the year, e.g. 3 points = A* 2 points = A and the cut off is about 24 or so, so nobody below that will be interviewed. (note - this is not true of all unis, and the cut off varies year on year) But basically the more A* the better.

A level - They will inevitably offer you no less than 3A. Some are even offering A*AA. You will need to do Chemistry and usually at least one other science (maths, biology, physics) Tests - nearly all medical schools require additional tests, either the UKCAT (verbal reasoning pressurised test) or the BMAT (science and maths and an essay) - both of these have massive time pressures and are, hands down, the hardest written exams I have ever done.

Don't worry though everyone finds them hard. Some schools take them more seriously than others (e.g. Sheffield) Other - personal statements are hugely important. You will need to prove you are dedicated to this.

Get as much healthcare related work experience as possible (volunteer at a nursing home, a hospital, a disabled home, shadow your uncle, shadow a GP, work in a pharmacy - anything). Also prove that you are a well rounded person by writing about your other interests and how they might make you a good doctor / what you learnt from them e.g. county netball taught you how to liase with other people in a calm and efficient manner. Thinking about this when you are 13 means you are already ahead of the game.

You will need to get good GSCE grades though. Those A* are vital. Best of luck x.

Start studying right now for the exam. Attend a clinic and help if possible, as an apprentice.

I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.