So, you want to be a doctor?
Firstly, congratulations! You’ve made an exciting decision.
It is a challenging career, but most definitely worth it.
Every year, thousands of high school graduates dream of becoming doctors – but getting into medical school in Australia isn’t easy. As you probably know, the process is highly competitive and can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re just starting your journey in Year 11.
But, the good news is that starting your prep early can really help.
I don’t mean in an all-guns-blazing, quit-everything, 8-hours-a-day-study way. But in a way that’s calm, intentional, and quietly builds momentum. I should know — because I did exactly that in Year 11, and it made the difference between barely surviving Year 12… and getting into UNSW Medicine.
Here are some small, strategic decisions I made in Year 11 that helped me - and what I wish I’d known earlier.
1. Clarify your ‘Why’, and note it down
The question ‘Why medicine?’ doesn’t just show up in interviews. It pops up when you’re tired at 11pm trying to study for Chemistry, or deciding whether to give up your weekend to volunteer. It matters now.
