Choosing medicine (CAO)
Hi, I’m a 6th year student finalising my cao and I am just trying to make sure medicine is the right choice.
I have wanted to do medicine for years but since starting 6th year, I’m mulling it over as it’s a major choice and I have only one chance at university so I want to choose wisely. I have a passion for medicine, I find it fascinating and the challenge would keep me stimulated. I did work experience in a hospital in the cardiology unit in 5th year and loved it. I also got to see many other departments like endocrinology, gastroenterology and the emergency unit. I was lucky enough to be taken in by a very passionate and enthusiastic cardiologist that week, who really intensified my passion.
I keep trying to push myself away from medicine as I hear the horror stories and how much you have to sacrifice. I understand not going into it for money, prestige or because your family wants you to. I genuinely love the idea of making a difference, learning about the human body, how it interlinks and treatment plans.
It is a fulfilling career but I’m only in 6th year so I don’t know the full extent and I would just like to hear others opinions on the career that are doctors. Was it worth it? Do you genuinely feel fulfilled and happy? If you could go back, would you choose medicine again?
Of course I have to wait to see if my hpat is good enough to get me in, bjt even if I do get it I really just want to be certain I’m making the right decision.
Thank you