Going abroad to pursue a medical degree is quite the experience, equally challenging and rewarding at the same time. It can be overwhelming for new students, though. Here are essential tips to help you as you take your first steps on your journey to starting a career in medicine. Make the most of your time with these recommendations.
Look at the Culture
Consider the school’s culture. Is it conducive to learning? Will you fit in with the rest? Some schools value academics more than extracurricular sports, for instance. Does that work for you, or do you want a programme that focuses on academics and extracurricular activities? What about the school’s values and customs? Do they align with yours? For instance, if you’re not from a particularly religious school, you might find it challenging to adjust to the environment in a Catholic school.
Consider the Language
What is the medium of instruction? Do you want to study medicine in Bulgaria in English? Many students mistakenly believe that going to a European country means they must learn the local language. But you can study medicine in English, so that’s a worry you can cross off your list. Not all schools provide this service, though, so check beforehand. Look at universities that offer degrees in English to make it easier to choose a programme and university.
Do the Math
Before you go, consider the cost of living. Will you have enough to live on? Will your budget cover all the expenses? You must have enough for housing, food, transportation, tuition, and other costs. Going away to college is a step in acquiring your independence. But that also means not relying on your family for your meals. No one will do your laundry, cook your food, and pay your bills. You’ll need to do all that yourself. Are you ready for the responsibility? The best way to prepare is to undergo the experience. That means no matter the amount of preparation, there will always be something you won’t be ready for. However, knowing enough of what will come will help you overcome those hurdles and keep you going.
Understand the Requirements
Review the school’s admission requirements. Do you qualify for the program? You might need to take a standardised test, just in case. You might also be asked to take a language proficiency exam. Also, many schools require an application essay. It wouldn’t hurt to research what makes an excellent essay before you start yours. Essentially, though, you want to stand out from the other students vying for a spot on the admissions list. Consider adding something unique about you or your talents and connect that to your skills, passion, and why you chose that school and programme. Never discount the power of a strong application essay. It can make a huge difference, especially if the competition is tight.
Plan Your Budget
Living abroad means you need to be careful about managing your finances. Aside from your housing, tuition, food, and transportation, you must also have enough money for books, educational resources, school trips, and more.
Get the Necessary Paperwork
Getting a degree from a European university means a lot of paperwork, but the experience is well worth it. You can look back on those years and pat yourself on the back, knowing you’ve made it and done the best you could. Before you can get to that step, though, you’ll need to start by preparing visas and other essential documents. From your passport and student visa to proof of your finances, health insurance, acceptance letters, and more, you should have everything ready. A missing document can spell doom for your application and delay it for weeks. Don’t let that happen.
Know All the Deadlines
Many students try their luck with three or more universities. That sounds like a sound idea. The more options you have, the better. That way, when the time comes and you get admitted to all three or even two of the three universities you applied to, you can choose where to go. However, that also means keeping track of different admission deadlines and requirements. Make a checklist. Create an admissions calendar and give yourself plenty of time. Many people make the mistake of thinking they have more time than they do. Don’t fall into that trap. Prepare in advance. That way, you won’t miss a single deadline.
Look for Opportunities
Before choosing a school, consider the opportunities the university offers. Do they provide practical training? What other research or learning opportunities do they offer? Do they ask the students to volunteer? What about networking with other students through conferences, school trips, and more? Research before you choose a school and programme.
Learn About the Country
Getting a medical degree means staying for years abroad. Learn as much as you can about the country and the area where you’ll stay. That will help you adjust quicky.
