The Journey to Achieving My Dream of Studying Medicine

My goal was to study medicine and through the IB program at Repton School Dubai, I am now able to achieve this. The IB program lasted a total of two years in which I found myself developing new skills, stepping outside of my comfort zone, and growing in confidence. The IB requires students taking a total of 3 subjects to a higher level (HL) and 3 to a standard (SL), as well as completing an extended essay, Theory of Knowledge (TOK) supplements, and fulfilling the CAS requirements. As per my decision to study Medicine at University, I took Chemistry, Biology and Psychology HL, and Maths, French B, and English Language & Literature SL. Although the program intimidated me at first, as did the complexity of my HL courses, I was fortunate to be supported by all my teachers, both content wise and mentally. As taxing as the two years were, I do not regret my decision choosing to partake in the IB as I value the newfound skills and maturity that accompany the program.

Despite being warned of the difficulty, I chose the IB curriculum as I was aware that it was internationally recognized (beneficial as I intended to apply to universities in both the UK, Australia and Ireland at the time). I liked how well rounded the program appeared, requiring not only academic achievements, but through CAS, I was given so many opportunities to give back to communities through service, unleash my creativity through art and musical activities, and increase my levels of exercise, in order to fulfil CAS hours. Though taking six subjects was extremely taxing and at times, difficult to balance, as a keen learner, I am grateful to have had the opportunity to explore such contrasting subjects to a great depth.

Through taking the IB diploma program, my IB cohort was given the opportunity to travel to Thailand to build a school and teach young children English as part of our CAS project. This was an extremely rewarding experience which the thought of probably wouldn’t have crossed my mind had I not undertook this curriculum with my school. Growing in confidence as the course progressed, I also applied for and successfully grasped the role of a head student in my school. This was a role requiring public speaking and leadership skills which I never would have imagined myself partaking in had my confidence and desire to take risks not emerged.

All the teachers, staff and peers alike were probably the biggest form of support I received. Whilst good resources were definitely beneficial, I think having people who not only supported me with the course material, but also with balancing many different aspects of the program and university-wise, helped me greatly. The most challenging time for me was during my early UK applications. I had to juggle, sitting two medical entrance exams, applying to medical school, and IB MOCKS, all of which was exhausting. However, I think the biggest lesson I have taken away from those challenges was the importance of time management, prioritising and asking for help rather than remaining silent.

I would say organisation and time management are key in a course as fast paced and vigorous as the IB curriculum. In addition to this, forming relationships with teachers who you feel as though you can talk to is extremely important. It is so important to voice your concerns or stresses, as remaining silent will only cause you further stress and can be mentally exhausting. But most of all, through taking subjects you will enjoy and staying positive, it is possible to successfully come out on top, as I have learnt that success is more prominent when having a genuine interest in what you are studying.

The final result of the work and effort at the end of the two years was definitely an achievement I am extremely proud of. I feel as though every experience I have gone through has helped me to develop the skills and traits that have allowed me to achieve what I have. Through treating every experience, both positive and negative as a learning opportunity, I was able to obtain my ideal results to get into my first-choice medical school after two strenuous years, which was a very satisfying feeling.