Exploring careers in Medicine at MCS Medics Open Day

Sicut Lilium

Like the lily

Our latin motto, still at the heart of our daily philosophy, carries a deep and spiritual meaning. It is an encouragement to flourish and to focus on what matters in life.

Aspiring medics from MCS and partner schools across Oxfordshire gathered on Monday for the annual MCS Medicine Open Day, spending an afternoon hearing from leading clinicians, current medical students and admissions specialists while developing the skills needed for successful applications to medical school.

Leading the day’s programme was Sir John Cunningham, Professor of Nephrology at UCL Medical School, who delivered the opening keynote, Lessons from Half a Century in Medicine – What I Didn’t Know. Drawing on more than 50 years in medicine, Sir John shared his experiences of a distinguished career, offering pupils valuable insight into the realities, challenges and rewards of working in healthcare.

Pupils then heard from current medical students, who compared their experiences of studying medicine in the first and fourth years of medical school, giving prospective applicants an honest and engaging perspective on life as a medical student. This was followed by practical advice from MCS Director of Higher Education, Mr Peter McDonald, who guided students through the process of writing strong personal statements before answering questions from the audience.

Following an opportunity to speak informally with the medical students over refreshments, the focus shifted to interview preparation. Pupils took part in a series of Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) stations, allowing them to experience the style of interviews used by many medical schools, while a parallel Speak Like a Medic workshop, led by Ms Christie Phillips, developed the communication and oracy skills needed to express ideas with clarity and confidence.

The day concluded with a keynote from Dr Alastair Lamb, Reader in Prostate Cancer Evolution and Honorary Consultant Urological Surgeon. Sharing insights from his work as both a surgeon and researcher, Dr Lamb explored how advances in robotic surgery and biological research are shaping the future of prostate cancer treatment.

The MCS Medicine Open Day gave aspiring medics a valuable opportunity to learn from experts at the forefront of healthcare, gain first hand insight into studying medicine and develop the practical skills needed to take the next step towards a career in the profession.