Getting a feel of medical school
“HELP – I don’t know what course to choose,” is a phrase commonly heard from many young students. It can be difficult and confusing when faced with the weighty decision of choosing their next education or career path.
Indeed, many students struggle to decide between the numerous options, especially when their exposure is limited.
This is where Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia’s (NUMed) Pre-Medical Workshop comes in with its huge array of benefits.
Its key purpose is to expose secondary school and college students to the medical field over two days where students are invited to join in the learning and experience what it is like at medical school.
Fun and informative workshop
For most students, this is the first time they gain exposure and insight into the medical world, a vital first step before proceeding to apply for a course at medical school.
Workshop organiser Khoo Jin Khang said, “The workshop is perfect for students who want to know more about medical school. Run by students, the course is tailored to what students find fun and engaging, as well as getting exactly what they want.
“For most students, the course provides them with a better understanding of exactly which course to enrol in at medical school.”
Packed with activities
There are many activities arranged during the workshop, which include talks by senior doctors, basic first aid teaching, auscultating with a stethoscope and other medically related activities.
The presence of senior doctors is complementary to the workshop as their enthusiasm, passion and drive is clearly demonstrated in the talks.
Khoo said, “The most important part of the workshop is to engage with the students and resonate with them. We find the clinical skills and first aid sessions most rewarding for this.”
“Being able to interact with senior doctors allows one to get a clearer picture of a doctor’s role.
“The interaction over the two-day workshop gives participants the exposure they need.”
Campus tour
The full tour of the NUMed facilities, lab and lecture theatres is an important part of the itinerary every year as this provides each student with a first-hand experience of what their life would be like in NUMed’s medical programme.
The facilities at NUMed are top-notch and thus, the highlight of the programme.
It can often be daunting having to process all the information over the two days, which is why NUMed finds it important for the secondary school and college students to have informal chats with current students to ask questions they might have missed during consultations with the lecturers.
It also allows students to ask personal questions about life on campus as well as being able to raise key concerns around the difficulty of examinations.
Earlier feedback from previous two-day workshops was incredibly encouraging. Students who attended the workshop found it very helpful to decide on their course.
The fee includes four meals, a high tea session and one T-shirt. Students will need to arrange their own transportation to NUMed. However, transportation from NUMed campus to the hostel will be provided.
With the workshop’s many benefits, the course will be an invaluable experience.
About NUMed
Newcastle University UK, has established an international branch campus in Johor, Malaysia to provide its undergraduate degrees in Medicine (MBBS) and the Biomedical Sciences (BSc). Both programmes offer opportunities for periods of study in the UK.
A one-year Foundation Certificate in Biological and Biomedical Sciences is also available, the successful completion of which will lead to progression to the MBBS or BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences programme.
All programmes are equivalent to those of Newcastle’s UK-based provision and lead to the award of the same degrees.
By choosing NUMed Malaysia, students will obtain a reputable UK qualification from an internationally recognised university at a cost significantly lesser than studying in the UK.
The workshop is perfect for students who want to know more about medical school. Run by students, the course is tailored to what students find fun and engaging, as well as getting exactly what they want.
Khoo Jin Khang