I'm thinking of doing a graduate medical course, am I crazy?

[carplestoona]

I'm in my final year of an undergrad degree, not a Bsc but has scientific elements. I didn't do any sciences at A Level.

However, I've been thinking about doing medicine for quite a few years but never went for it and did other things instead. I've been researching and have found 4 universities which accept candidates for grad entry who haven't done a Bsc nor have science A levels.

I got 4 A grades at A level and would spend a year after graduating getting medical-related experience before applying. I'd be 28 by the time I finish med school and the 2 years training afterwards, this wouldn't be too old would it?

I'm also not sure how I would fund it at this moment but could maybe work for a couple of years first to save it. If you know of any other funding options please let me know.

Should I do it?

Yes go for it! You must be still really young at the moment - 21 or 22? I'm a GP and absolutely love it. It can be tough at times, but it's interesting, rewarding, diverse and well paid. You can work and train flexibly to fit in around family life, and can expect to have a long career with a decent pension (eventually). You also have the option to work and travel if you like. Contrary to what you might hear or read, most patients are lovely and really appreciative of their doctors. The best part of my day is seeing patients who I have got to know well over the years, having a chat and sometimes a laugh! We really need more medics in the UK, it's still a great vocation.

It depends if you are going into it with your eyes wide, wide open. Follow the medical registrar on Facebook and read Bodies. Also have a look at the very recent Guardian article about trainee doctors being denied leave.

I considered post grad medicine several times but in the end decided it wasn't for me as I need my rest and sleep, and that just isn't how it works for junior grade doctors. Working times directives really don't apply if you want to progress (particularly in surgical career pathways). I know from experience that I might be able to do a few 80 hour weeks but not over and over for several years, it would make me ill, so therefore there wasn't much point in putting myself through the degree.

I will probably do my masters in advance practice within my chosen health care profession at some point.

If it's the only thing you can ever imagine yourself doing, and you want to do it with every bone in your body, then go for it.

If not, for the love of god don't.