A former Shireland Collegiate Academy Sixth Form student returned to the Academy in Smethwick to share his experience of studying medicine with year 12 students considering careers in health and medicine.
Akeel Muhammed, who recently completed his medical degree at the University of Birmingham and began his Foundation Training at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, met with students interested in applying to study medicine and dentistry.
The session gave students a first-hand insight into the journey from sixth form to medical school and into the profession. Muhammed reflected on his own university application experience, including preparing for medical school entrance exams and researching universities and courses.
He also highlighted the importance of work experience and volunteering, as well as understanding the time, dedication and commitment required to pursue a career in medicine before embarking on the application process.
For the year 12 students attending, the visit provided an opportunity to hear directly from a recent medical graduate who had navigated the same decisions they are now beginning to consider. Muhammed also shared an insight into life at medical school and the transition into Foundation Training.
Ben Brogan, Head of Sixth Form at Shireland Collegiate Academy, said: “For students considering medicine, it can be difficult to know what the journey really looks like beyond the prospectus. Akeel was able to give our year 12’s that first-hand perspective, drawing on his own experience to show them not only what is required, but how they can begin preparing now.
“Ultimately, we want our students to make ambitious choices based on a clear understanding of what those choices involve. Hearing from a former student who has recently navigated the same process brings that ambition to life. It helps students see that a career in medicine is not simply an aspiration, but a pathway they can work towards with purpose, preparation and determination.”
The visit gave aspiring medics at the Academy a valuable opportunity to learn from a recent graduate and gain a clearer understanding of the choices, preparation and commitment involved in pursuing a career in the medical profession.
